The first global standards of hearing specifically for esports have just been published. The objective of which is to bring awareness into the industry that has seen multi-million growth in the form of investments and viewership.
World Hearing Day 2025
On World Hearing Day 2025, WHO has outcasted gamers and esports professionals to be overcautious with their increased exposure to loud environments.
The report clearly suggests that gamers are at increased risk of permanent hearing loss due to their prolonged exposure to extremely loud conditions. This is not just for when they game in their personal space, but is extended to live events too. The report published by World Health Organization and International Telecommunication Union emphasizes further on limiting the exposure levels at all platforms.
In view of World Hearing Day 2025, WHO and ITU furthers their cause in developing a mechanism to curb down the rising cases of hearing losses, specifically among gamers. Alongside the concerns, WHO has in its guidelines directed some suggestions that could be implemented to improve the present conditions:
- Sound Level Monitoring
- Sound Level Limit
- Optimizing venue acoustics
- Personal hearing protections
- Introduction of Quiet Zones
- Appropriate training for all
Hearing Troubles & Tinnitus in Gamers
According to multiple studies, millions across the globe are at risk of being exposed to loud sound levels from gaming. This exposure is through either earpieces or their mobile devices.
Moreover, a study conducted almost a decade ago had already anticipated health concerns directly related to esports and gaming. Whether it being mental health issues, organ-related or even at a nutrition level. Hazard through gaming now can not be overlooked. As many as quarter of a billion people in the world are actively involved in some form of gaming.
Tinnitus, a form of an ear disease which causes ringing in the ear is also associated with prolonged exposure. This too, has been long reported to be a concern for career gamers who have unregulated exposure.