More than 28 million Americans have some degree of hearing loss, and by the year 2030, that number is expected to soar to 78 million. Noise-induced hearing loss, which is completely preventable, makes up at least one-third of all hearing loss.

In today's world, noise is all around us - at home, at work and in the activities we choose to do for fun. And, because hearing loss is completely painless, most people don't realize they're damaging their hearing until it's too late.

The Associated Press recently reported that 60% of soldiers and Marines fighting in the war on terror are coming home with hearing damage, making it the number one disability stemming from the war. Nearly 70,000 of the more than 1.3 million troops who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan are collecting disability for tinnitus, a potentially debilitating ringing in the ears, and more than 58,000 are on disability for hearing loss, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. The true toll could take decades to become clear.

And, closer to home, another source of potential hearing damage are iPods. One out of three teens owns an iPod or other MP3 player. At maximum volume, MP3s can pump up the volume 100-120 decibels (dB). A CNN poll reported that 59% of teenagers and 34% of adults play their favorite tunes at high volumes. And, the average user listens from one to four hours a day. The potential effects on hearing could be devastating.

And, every holiday season, the Sight & Hearing Association releases its annual Noisy Toys List. On the most recent list, 15 of 20 toys tested sounded off over 100 dB. (See December '07 health issue for more information.)

Wednesday, April 16, is International Noise Awareness Day. The goal of the day, organized by hearing-related organizations worldwide, is to educate the public about the dangers of noise to hearing and health. In Minnesota, the Sight & Hearing Association is partnering with audiologists across the state to offer free hearing screenings on April 16.

To find a screening site in Minnesota, click here.

Most people don't think about their hearing until it's too late. When was the last time you had your hearing checked?