Today the World Health Organisation (WHO) once again raises awareness of hearing health all around the globe, with the annual World Hearing Day.

This year’s theme for the initiative is “Action for hearing loss: make a sound investment” – aiming to draw attention to the economic impact of hearing loss.

According to the WHO, “Unaddressed hearing loss poses a high cost for the economy globally and has a significant impact on the lives of those affected. Interventions to address hearing loss are available and are cost-effective”.

On a global scale, the numbers are staggering. The WHO estimates that unaddressed hearing loss costs the global economy $750 billion each year. 360 million people live with a disabling hearing loss and a further 1 billion people are at risk of hearing loss due to listening to loud music for extended periods of time.

These numbers may be hard to comprehend, but at a personal level the take home message is simple. The personal cost of unaddressed hearing loss is high, however the cost of prevention and intervention, in relative terms, is not.

Hearing loss can profoundly impact on quality of life and is linked to other health conditions. However, impacts of hearing loss can largely be overcome through protecting your ears from excessive noise, early detection of any hearing loss, appropriate treatment (use of hearing devices fitted by qualified experts) and being fully informed.

Mackay Hearing Principal Audiologist and Director, Jodie Miles believes World Hearing Day is a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness on hearing issues. “World Hearing Day is also as good a day as any for people reflect on their hearing health and take action if they have concerns. Taking action starts by simply booking a hearing test, even if it is just for piece of mind”, Ms Miles said.

For more information on World Hearing Day 2017, visit the relevant pages on the World Health Organization’s website.