Esports and video gameplay have become integral parts of modern entertainment, attracting a large audience of young people worldwide. However, amidst the excitement and competition, there lies a potential risk to players’ health – unsafe listening practices that may lead to permanent hearing damage. Recognizing this concern, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) collaborated to address this issue by developing a global standard for safe listening in video gameplay and esports.
The impetus behind this initiative stems from a WHO-led systematic scoping review highlighting the prevalence of unsafe listening behaviors during video gameplay sessions. The review underscored the alarming possibility of irreversible hearing loss and tinnitus among individuals due to prolonged exposure to high sound levels during gaming activities. In response to these findings, the ITU and WHO set out to create the first-ever technical standard aimed at safeguarding the auditory health of video gamers.
The resulting document, known as the ITU-T H.872 Safe Listening for Video Gameplay and Esports, delineates essential features and requirements that video gaming devices and software titles must incorporate to promote safe listening practices among users. Grounded in evidence-based principles of hearing loss prevention, the recommendations encompass strategies to mitigate the risk of hearing damage caused by excessive sound levels. Moreover, the standard emphasizes the importance of effective communication to instigate behavioral changes among gamers and esports enthusiasts.
By establishing this global standard, the WHO and ITU aim to raise awareness about the potential risks associated with unsafe listening practices during video gameplay and esports. Through a collaborative effort, these organizations seek to empower stakeholders within the gaming industry to prioritize player well-being and implement measures that foster a safer gaming environment.
As the esports landscape continues to evolve and expand, ensuring the adoption of safe listening practices emerges as a critical aspect of promoting the overall health and longevity of players. By adhering to the guidelines outlined in the global standard, gaming developers, hardware manufacturers, and esports event organizers can contribute to a culture of responsible gaming that prioritizes the well-being of participants.
Moving forward, the WHO’s Make Listening Safe initiative, supported by the newly established global standard, endeavors to drive positive change within the gaming community. By advocating for safe listening practices and raising awareness about the potential risks of excessive sound exposure, this collaborative endeavor aims to safeguard the auditory health of gamers worldwide.
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