Noise Exposure and Hearing Loss

Excerpt

Noise exposure is evolving into a significant occupational hazard and environmental pollutant as the planet becomes increasingly industrialized. Noise and hearing impairment have become growing concerns over the last century. Noise pollution is intensifying worldwide due to myriad factors, including burgeoning populations, expanding industrialization, the popularization of motor vehicles, and widespread recreational activity. Noise causes auditory and systemic health problems due to the immediate adverse effect of high-amplitude acoustic trauma and cumulative adverse effects from chronic noise exposure.

A lack of awareness exists among the public of the ill effects of noise on physical and mental health. Government regulatory agencies, such as the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), are tasked with preventing noise exposure and creating awareness of the impact of noise exposure among employers, employees, and the general public. Additionally, research studies are being performed in different noise environments, such as factories, military bases, and airports, to determine the exact magnitude of the problem that noise exposure presents to the public.