PhD defence C.M.P. (Carlijn) le Clercq

Brief summary of the doctoral thesis:

Exposure to loud sounds is a known cause of hearing loss. Currently, exposure to loud music is almost constantly available due to personal music players and smartphones with a music playing function and the use of headphones. This thesis aims to gain a better understanding of (early) acquired hearing loss and its determinants, specifically exposure to loud music and other noise. We studied hearing thresholds at a mid-childhood age, and whether associated in- and extrinsic factors could be identified. Finally, we examined if children with higher hearing thresholds perform differently in daily life. With these findings we hope to learn which children are most susceptible to acquire hearing loss, to what account music exposure and headphone use seems to be related, and which consequences can appear; in order to develop optimal prevention strategies in this and in future headphone generations.