MP3 player users risk hearing loss

BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) -- The European Union told music lovers Monday to turn down the volume of MP3 players, saying they risk permanent hearing loss from listening too long at maximum levels.

Listening to music at volumes over 89 decibels through headphones could damage your hearing, scientists warn.

Listening to music at volumes over 89 decibels through headphones could damage your hearing, scientists warn.

EU scientists reported that between 2.5 million and 10 million Europeans could suffer hearing loss from listening to MP3 players at unsafe volumes -- over 89 decibels -- for more an hour daily for at least five years.

EU spokeswoman Helen Kearns said the EU executive was asking people, especially children and young people, "to turn it down" now because they may be damaging their hearing without noticing it.

more about hearing loss here.