Investigation into Noise Exposure and Hearing Health with Apple Research app and Apple Watch Noise app. Image credit: Apple
A recent study conducted by the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health has revealed that noticeable spikes in noise levels occur across the United States during significant events like the Super Bowl, with heightened sounds commencing well before kick-off.
The Super Bowl, recognized as one of the globe’s most popular live spectacles, often fuels enthusiastic reactions from fans, leading to increased noise levels. Insights from the latest findings of Apple’s Hearing Study illustrate that this auditory phenomenon resonates nationwide.
This comprehensive report analyzed data from over 115,000 participants in Apple’s Hearing Study who utilized the Noise monitoring feature on their Apple Watches. The research aimed to quantify sound level increases associated with major sporting events.
For this analysis, researchers monitored sound levels during Super Bowls held between 2021 and 2024, including six hours prior to and following each game. These figures were averaged for comparative purposes against similar times on subsequent Sundays.
Decibel Levels Recorded During Super Bowl – Image Credit: University of Michigan
The results indicated a discernible noise level increase ranging from 1.5 to 3 decibels on Super Bowl Sunday relative to typical Sundays without games. This elevation began approximately three hours before kickoff and continued for around three hours post-event.
Understanding Decibel Adjustments
A rise of three decibels is roughly equivalent to doubling sound intensity; while such an increment may not be immediately noticeable, it represents a significant auditory burden nonetheless.
Regional Variations in Sound Levels
Examining Sound Intensity by Region
To gain deeper insights into how regional factors influenced these variations, researchers also categorized volume increases based on locations hosting games versus those where participating teams are based. This data was compared against averages collected from states uninvolved in that year’s event.
The analysis unveiled consistently higher volume readings in game-hosting states compared to non-participating ones across all four studies conducted thus far—an unprecedented examination revealing substantial national consequences stemming from a single short-duration event.
Promoting Safe Listening Habits
The findings conclude with an emphasis on safeguarding hearing health amidst noisy environments: “We advocate for self-monitoring using available tools (such as the Noise app on iPhone or Apple Watch) along with wearing ear protection when partaking in loud activities—this ensures enjoyment while prioritizing safety.”
Tinnitus Insights From Prior Studies
The ongoing research efforts within Apple’s Hearing Study have previously indicated alarming statistics—15% of respondents experiencing daily tinnitus symptoms by May 2024 while nearly 77.6% had undergone some form at least once throughout their lives.
Noisy Environments Reported Nationwide
A 2023 finding highlighted elevated exposure rates among individuals living densely populated areas—with Puerto Rico marking the highest incidence rate at approximately 44%, showcasing pressing concerns regarding ambient noise pollution.
If interested individuals wish to participate more actively within these valuable research initiatives please consider downloading the Apple Research application available via App Store!
