Originally published October 2019. Refreshed October 2026.
October is National Audiology Awareness Month, a time to highlight audiologists' services and the importance of protecting your hearing. From identifying hearing loss to treating tinnitus and balance problems, audiologists help people of all ages protect their hearing and overall well-being.
In celebration of Audiology Awareness Month, here are a few facts you may not know about audiology and hearing health:
Unsafe listening puts more than 1 billion young people at risk for hearing loss. According to the World Health Organization, people ages 12–35 risk permanent hearing damage from unsafe listening practices, including using personal audio devices at high volumes and attending loud entertainment events. Using hearing protection and keeping listening volumes at safe levels can help protect your hearing.
Hearing loss affects people of all ages. Audiologists work with infants, children, teens, adults, and older adults. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders estimates that approximately 37.5 million American adults report some trouble hearing. If you have difficulty following conversations, frequently ask people to repeat themselves, or notice changes in your hearing, our audiologists can help determine whether a hearing evaluation is appropriate.
Audiologists do much more than fit hearing aids. Our audiologists evaluate hearing, help manage hearing loss, and treat conditions such as tinnitus and certain balance disorders. We can also recommend hearing protection, discuss ways to prevent further damage from noise exposure, and help you explore treatment options based on your individual needs.
Hearing health matters for children, too. Hearing difficulties can affect a child's speech and language development, classroom participation, and ability to follow instructions. The World Health Organization estimates that nearly 60% of hearing loss in children is preventable. If your child has difficulty following directions, frequently asks for repetition, or seems inattentive in class, a hearing evaluation may help determine whether hearing is a factor.
Celebrate National Audiology Awareness Month with us by making your hearing health a priority. Whether you have noticed changes in your hearing, experience ringing in your ears, have balance concerns, or want to be proactive, our audiologists at Hearing Health Associates are here to help. Contact one of our offices to request an appointment and learn more about protecting your hearing and caring for your ears.
