Noise exposure at college basketball games

What is it about?

Noise levels were measured at different seats in a college basketball arena at basketball games during the regular season. The noise levels are reported in reference to the time of exposure and the intensity of the noise. The “dose” of noise exposure for peolle in the different parts of the arena was calculated. Finally, some subjects were tested with a standard hearing threshold test and with otoacoustic emissions before attending a basketball game and then immediately following the game. Results showed the majority of subjects experienced a temporary shift in their hearing thresholds after attending the basketball game.

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Why is it important?

Few studies have measured noise levels at major sporting events and tested hearing levels of attendees before and after the event. The present study demonstrates the real danger to hearing that college sporting events may present.