A preventable problem: Noise-induced hearing loss in kids
Philadelphia is hosting the ASHA (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association) Convention this week, and an article on the Healthy Kids section of Philly.com was dedicated to Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) in children.
Noise Induced Hearing Loss: A Global Problem
"With a large number of kids using ear buds and headphones, noise-induced hearing loss is a serious issue, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Just last year, the World Health Organization estimated 1.1 billion teenagers and young adults are at risk of hearing loss due to the unsafe use of personal audio devices, including smartphones, and exposure to damaging levels of sound at noisy entertainment venues such as nightclubs, bars, and sporting events."
Oran Etkins demonstrating how inner ear hair cells move with sound at an ASHA Listen To Your Buds concert. Image from interview on NBC10, aired 11/15/16
Reaching Children through Music
ASHA has developed and promoted a concert series with the highly successful 'Listen To Your Buds' campaign. With renowned artists such as Oran Etkins and Jazzy Ash & the Leaping Lizards, the message of healthy hearing is being present to children and families in a fun and relatable manner.
How Do We Help Prevent Noise Induced Hearing Loss in children?
"... there are many products available to help parents protect their children’s hearing. These include things like earplugs and earmuffs designed to protect hearing in loud sound environments as well as earphones and headphones that limit the volume levels to reduce the risk for hearing loss. While these products are valuable tools, their appropriate use still requires that the child understands the dangers of loud sound and that they are at risk of noise-induced hearing loss."
Thank you to ASHA and all the amazing guest musicians for bringing this conversation into the limelight in such a creative manner. NBC10 took notice of this topic and featured the discussion on air with an interview featuring musician Oran Etkins and Joy Peterson, Manager of Audiology at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.