Were you aware that more than 1 billion young adults worldwide are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss because of unsafe listening practices?
The World Health Organization notes that “Good hearing and communication are important at all stages of life.” Hearing loss is not just a consequence of growing old; it can result from genetic causes, complications at birth, certain infectious diseases, chronic ear infections, exposure to loud sounds, and the use of ototoxic medicines.
The WHO rolled out their World Hearing Day on March 3rd this year, hoping to raise awareness of the serious threat hearing loss poses to the health and quality of life of individuals around the world.
We want to do our part in raising awareness in South Plains communities to encourage scheduling a hearing assessment and promote hearing care.
Major Issues Related to Untreated Hearing Loss
“Hearing Care for ALL! Screen, Rehabilitate, Communicate” is the message the World Health Organization wants to get across to individuals and policymakers worldwide.
Their 2021 campaign raises awareness of the serious issues that result from leaving hearing loss untreated as the number of individuals experiencing hearing loss rises from 1.5 billion people today to 2.5 billion by 2050.
Significant issues related to hearing loss that must be addressed include:
1# The average person with hearing loss waits ten years before scheduling a hearing assessment.
2# Although hearing loss is the 3rd most common health condition in the US, people still prioritize dental care, eye exams, cholesterol and blood pressure checks, and annual physicals while ignoring hearing tests.
3# Hearing loss is an issue that affects people of all ages, not just the elderly.
4# Hearing loss is preventable using proper hearing protection during activities with the potential to damage hearing.
5# The dangers of leaving hearing loss untreated include reduced cognitive function, depression and anxiety, poor balance, decreased productivity, and strained relationships.
6# The stigmas surrounding hearing aids and the misconception that they are bulky, unsightly, and frustrating to deal with continue to cause people to avoid having their hearing checked.
As the WHO encourages screening, rehabilitation, and better communication globally, we have to ask ourselves what we can do to encourage our family, friends, and neighbors to take a hearing loss and hearing care more seriously.
How Can You Help Spread the Word?
Hearing loss is not something most of us expect to experience, and we usually don’t recognize the symptoms and threat of hearing loss until communication becomes a significant challenge.
The best way to gain control over hearing loss is to educate ourselves and others about the negative impact it can have on our lives while pointing out that your local audiologist has solutions to the problem.
Those solutions and the journey to better hearing begin with a hearing assessment.
Cornerstone Audiology Is the Place to Start Your Hearing Health Journey
The potential risks of leaving your hearing loss untreated far outweigh any misconceptions you or those around you might have about hearing aids and hearing care.
There are solutions available to address hearing loss regardless of the type, severity, or cause.
The team and I at Cornerstone Audiology are passionate about getting help to those affected by hearing loss as those at risk of further damage to their hearing.
If you or a loved one wants to start your journey toward better hearing health, contact us at our Lubbock or Snyder clinic to schedule a hearing assessment, or request a callback.