Loud pubs and clubs cause hearing damage in young

Nine in 10 young people experience the signs of hearing damage after a night out, new research has revealed.

The charity RNID found that 90 per cent of young people aged 16-30 experience dullness of hearing or ringing in the ears after a night out.

More than half of the 1,381 surveyed said they visited a bar where they had to shout to be heard at least once a week.

RNID is calling on the government to establish a recommended noise exposure level for audiences attending music venues and events and educate young people about noise as a public health risk.

Dr John Low, chief executive of RNID, said: "We're all familiar with messages about practising safe sex and using suncream - but the lack of any guidance on loud music means this generation of music lovers could be facing a hearing loss timebomb.

"With regular exposure to music at high volumes in clubs, gigs and bars, it's only too easy to clock up noise doses that could damage their hearing forever."

Neil Williams, spokesman for rthe British Beer and Pub Association, said: "Steps are being taken to raise awareness. A noise regulation is due in 2008 and will cover a range of measures including how to limit the sound exposure of staff and how speakers should be positioned.

"We are working on guidance for our members."

The statistics form part of the charity's "Like it Loud?" report, published as part of its Don't Lose the Music campaign.