The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that millions of young people around the world are at risk of hearing loss from loud music.

Around half of those between the ages of 12 and 35 in middle- income and high-income countries are at risk because of unsafe levels of sound on personal audio devices or smartphones, according to WHO estimates.

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Another 40 percent are at risk from damaging audio levels at concert venues and night clubs.

"More and more young people are exposed to unsafe levels of sounds. Young people should be aware that once you lose your hearing, it won't come back," said Shelley Chadha, a WHO specialist on hearing impairment.

WHO said volumes above 85 decibels for eight hours or 100 decibels for 15 minutes are unsafe. Exposure to traffic noise at peak hours can reach 85 decibels.

The vuvuzela, a popular wind instrument used in stadiums during the football World Cup in South Africa in 2010, has a sound intensity of 120 decibels and over nine seconds of exposure could result in irreversible hearing damage.

"It is something we can live without," Chadha said referring to the vuvuzela.

The Geneva-based agency recommends young people take listening breaks, use apps to limit the volume on their smartphone and consider using personal audio players for no more than one hour a day, at reduced sound levels.

The use of ear plugs in loud conditions and regular checkups were part of the recommendations, as well.

WHO also wants governments to impose strict regulations on noise in public places.

TagsWHO, hearing loss, take listening breaks, music volume, decibels