The problem of teens damaging their hearing with MP3 players and other loud music has become even more apparent.

A recent spate of surveys in the United States and Canada has revealed that MP3 player users are further damaging their hearing by listening to their players too loudly, despite recent campaigns and coverage to highlight the dangers.

A recent OMSI exhibit found that one in eight teens were unable to hear a 20-decibel sound in one ear, which is effectively the same volume as a person whispering in your ear.

It’s not just Americans and Canadians that are suffering either. Sweden has a similar problem as 1 in 11 Swedish teens have complained about a permanent ringing in their ears. 1 in 6 Swedish teens complained of lasting noise sensitivity. Teenagers in Holland stated that they have the volume on their MP3 players set at maximum, believing that they wouldn’t be affected by the sound, even though they admitted being aware of the dangers.

This data has been very alarming as many school age teens don’t actually bother getting themselves tested for hearing loss.

The strong message coming out from this is to turn the music down on your MP3 player and iPod.