According to the NIDCD 30 million Americans are exposed to hazardous sound levels on a regular basis. Exposure occurs in the workplace, in recreation, and even in the home. Of the 28 million people who have hearing loss at least a third of those can attribute the loss to exposure to noise. The real tragedy though is that Noise Induced Hearing Loss is preventable. With a couple simple steps, this form of hearing loss could totally be avoided. Avoid the noise, turn down the volume, or wear ear plugs.

As much as people hate admitting that they need help hearing and as much as people hate wearing hearing aids; why do they hate wearing ear plugs so much? I find it so ironic. If we are ever to remove the stigma of wearing ear plugs and preserving our hearing; I believe education is key.

Last week I was able to share a video about hearing health with a group of second grade children at the local Boys and Girls Club. I had previously screened the video with my 11 year old daughter. She said it wasn't too cheesy. After watching the video last week; I asked the kids how they enjoyed it. One little girl said that she had seen a video at school about her ears and hearing and that it was "soooo boring". They actually enjoyed and more importantly learned from the video I had brought. I think it is great that there are groups out there that are starting to produce educational pieces that attract the kids and focus their attention. Both entertaining and educating these kids on how important their hearing health is.

One such group making strides in this area is the ASHA. Recently in its campaign to conserve hearing by promoting safe usage of popular technology; the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association introduced the "Buds," two cartoon earbud characters who provide safety tips for children, their parents, and other adults. You can meet the Buds @ www.listentoyourbuds.org; an interactive web site that features fun, free, and downloadable items featuring the Buds. The web site includes screen savers, bookmarks, and posters. All items feature the Buds and the "Rules of Thumb," simple safety guidelines which encourage kids to do things such as lower the volume and limit listening time. This is a step in the right direction.