Many people are exposed to noise that damages their hearing.

Hearing gets worse over time the more often people are exposed to loud sounds. 

Hearing loss is costly.

Hearing loss from loud noise can be prevented. 

Hearing loss causes many problems. 
■ Continual exposure to noise can cause stress, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, heart disease, and many other health problems.
■ Some people are at higher risk for hearing loss, including those who: 
`` are exposed to loud sounds at home and in the community. 
`` work in noisy environments (especially noise of 85 dB or more for 8 hours or longer). 
`` take medicines that increase their risk. 
`` are male. 
`` are age 40 or older. 

Everyone can 
■ Avoid noisy places whenever possible. 
■ Use earplugs, protective ear muffs, noisecanceling headphones when near loud noises. 
■ Keep the volume down when watching TV, listening to music, and using earbuds or headphones.
■ Ask your doctor for a hearing checkup and how to protect your hearing from noise.