Celebrate International Noise Awareness Day With Beltone

Held annually on the last Wednesday of April, International Noise Awareness Day is dedicated to the vital cause of noise pollution awareness and its impact on our health. First established in 1996 by the Center for Hearing and Communication, International Noise Awareness Day encourages us to "turn down the volume" and highlights how reducing noise pollution can significantly improve both personal and public health.

The Quiet Menace: Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common forms of sensorineural hearing loss, caused by exposure to excessively loud sounds. Whether from industrial machinery, daily traffic, or even recreational activities like sports games and concerts, prolonged exposure to noise can permanently damage the hair cells in the inner ear, leading to hearing loss. This type of hearing damage is insidious because it can accumulate over time, often without noticeable symptoms until significant harm has occurred.

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, approximately 15% of Americans (about 26 million people) between the ages of 20 and 69 suffer from noise-induced hearing loss. These statistics underline the importance of understanding the risks of everyday noise exposure.

How Loud Is Too Loud?

Sound is measured in decibels (dB), and exposure to noise levels above 85 dB for prolonged periods can lead to hearing damage. For reference, normal conversation typically occurs at about 60 dB, while a concert can soar to 120 dB or more. The World Health Organization recommends that the highest permissible level of noise exposure in the workplace is 85 dB for a maximum of eight hours per day.

Turning Down the Volume

This International Noise Awareness Day, take a moment to assess your daily noise exposure and consider ways to protect your hearing:

• Use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones in loud environments.
• Limit time spent engaged in noisy activities.
• Keep the volume down on personal audio devices.
• Opt for quieter appliances and tools when possible.

Beltone's Commitment to Hearing Health

At Beltone, we're committed to helping individuals lead healthier lives through better hearing. In observance of International Noise Awareness Day, we invite you to visit your local Beltone center for a free hearing screening. Early detection is key in managing and preventing further hearing loss. Our state-of-the-art hearing solutions and personalized care can help you stay connected to the sounds that matter most.

Don't wait until it's too late to address your hearing health. Let us help you tune out the harmful noise and tune into life's beautiful sounds. Visit us today and take that first step towards a clearer tomorrow.