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According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), there are about 37 million Americans currently living with communication disorders. In addition, there are another 7.5 million who have trouble using their voices. The NIDCD also states that two to three of every thousand babies born in the US have some degree of hearing loss. These disorders can affect their physical and emotional health as well as their social lives, education, and career options.
About 15 percent of the American population reports hearing loss to some degree, according to the NIDCD. Hearing loss can lead to an individual feeling isolated from family, friends and even their community. The use of hearing aids could greatly improve their quality of life, yet only about a quarter of those who need them use them. Raising awareness can help people to evaluate their own hearing and to get help when needed.
The hearing loss faced by most adults in the US may result from exposure to loud noises that occurs over time. For example, the use of earbuds or headphones at high volumes for extended periods can result in impaired hearing. Noisy environments can also cause hearing loss. Awareness of these dangers can encourage people to take steps to protect their hearing.
Better Hearing and Speech Month is also a good time to promote hearing protection. In order to maintain hearing, everyone should be encouraged to: