Whether you deem it an annoyance or an aggravation, noise is the leading cause of hearing loss, affecting an estimated 10 million Americans and putting 30 million more at risk. Wednesday, April 24, is International Noise Awareness Day. The goal of this day is to educate the public about the dangers of noise to hearing and health.

"We're not just talking about noise in a factory or at a construction site," said Julee Sylvester, Sight & Hearing Association spokesperson. "We're talking about noise in our own homes and in the activities we do for fun. This everyday noise is a huge contributor to serious hearing damage. Yet, it's completely preventable."

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is hearing loss resulting from overexposure to noise. It occurs gradually and without pain. Sounds of sufficient intensity and duration will damage the ear and result in temporary or permanent hearing loss. NIHL can result instantly from a single loud noise - a firecracker or gunshot - or gradually from noise experienced over a period of time.

In addition to hearing, exposure to noise has been shown to affect overall health. It can trigger high levels of stress, changes in heart rate and rhythm, a rise in cholesterol and blood pressure, headaches, sleep deprivation, and even heart attacks.

To ward off noise-induced hearing loss, follow three simple steps: avoid loud noise, turn it down or wear hearing protection. In addition, have your hearing checked regularly.

For International Noise Awareness Day, the Sight & Hearing Association is sponsoring the following activities in Minnesota:

• Free hearing screenings - In the Twin Cities metro area and greater Minnesota, audiologists will provide free hearing screenings to the public. Screenings will be held in Edina, Forest Lake, Minneapolis, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Robbinsdale, Roseville, St. Paul, Stillwater and Woodbury, as well as in Bemidji, Brainerd, Faribault, International Falls, Marshall, Moorhead, Northfield, Rochester, St. Cloud, Walker, and Willmar. (See attached location list or call Sight & Hearing Association at 1-800-992-0424.)
• Dissemination of free ear plugs and information - Ear plugs, donated by 3M, and fact sheets on noise-induced hearing loss will be distributed at all screening sites.
• 60-Seconds of Silence - From 2:15-2:16 p.m., the public is encouraged to experience a minute of silence.