A new systematic review and meta-analysis published in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, the official journal of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF), reveals that musicians face substantially higher rates of tinnitus, hearing loss, and hyperacusis compared to non-musicians. The study, which pooled data from 67 studies encompassing more than 28,000 musicians across 21 countries.
The research found that 42.6% of musicians reported tinnitus (ringing in the ears), compared to just 13.2% in control populations. Hearing loss affected 25.7% of musicians versus 11.6% of controls, and hyperacusis — an increased sensitivity to everyday sounds — was reported by 37.3% of musicians compared to 15.3% of non-musicians.
"Many musicians quietly live with ringing ears, sound sensitivity, or hearing loss, no matter whether they play in a symphony hall or a small club. Yet the research we have is still imperfect, often based on self-reported symptoms and missing details about things like other loud hobbies, specific instruments, and how consistently people use hearing protection. What we really need now is more personal, musician-entered risk profiling so we can offer practical, tailored advice that helps artists protect their hearing without sacrificing the music they love," said Shaun A. Nguyen, MD, Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at the Medical University of South Carolina.
Among musicians who experienced tinnitus, the majority (76.3%) described their symptoms as occasional, while 15.6% reported permanent tinnitus. Among musicians with hearing loss, approximately 63% of cases were based on subjective self-report, with only about 37% confirmed through objective audiometric testing — suggesting the true prevalence may be even higher than reported.
Notably, the study found no significant difference in the prevalence of hearing loss, hyperacusis, or tinnitus between classical and pop/rock musicians. This challenges previous assumptions and suggests that auditory risk extends across musical genres. The authors note that individual factors such as instrument type, seating position within an ensemble, room acoustics, and attitudes toward hearing protection may play a more critical role in auditory risk than genre alone.
Other Resources
- AAO-HNSF Clinical Practice Guideline: Tinnitus Note: This guideline is currently in the process of being updated, with an anticipated publication date in summer 2026.
- ENThealth.org — Tinnitus: Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for tinnitus.
- ENThealth.org — How Can I Lessen the Impact of Tinnitus? Practical tips and strategies for managing tinnitus in daily life.
Study Citation: McCray, L.R., Ripp, A.T., Nguyen, S.A., Pelic, J.C., Labadie, R.F. and Meyer, T.A. (2026), Auditory Symptoms Among Musicians: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg, 174: 305-316. https://doi.org/10.1002/ohn.70094
Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (OTO Journal) is the official peer-reviewed publication of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. Our mission is to publish contemporary, ethical, clinically relevant information in otolaryngology, head and neck surgery (ear, nose, throat, head, and neck disorders) that can be used by otolaryngologists, clinicians, scientists, and specialists to improve patient care and public health.
About the AAO-HNS/F
The AAO-HNS/F is one of the world's largest organizations representing specialists who treat the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. Otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons diagnose and treat medical disorders that are among the most common affecting patients of all ages in the United States and around the world. Those medical conditions include chronic ear disease, hearing and balance disorders, hearing loss, sinusitis, snoring and sleep apnea, allergies, swallowing disorders, nosebleeds, hoarseness, dizziness, and tumors of the head and neck as well as aesthetic and reconstructive surgery and intricate micro-surgical procedures of the head and neck. The Academy has approximately 13,000 members. The AAO-HNS Foundation works to advance the art, science, and ethical practice of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery through education, research, and quality measurement.
