Approximately 30 million Americans are affected by hearing loss. 50 million have tinnitus: an early indicator of hearing loss.
5.2 million 6-19 year olds have hearing loss directly related to noise exposure. (3rd National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, Niskar et al. 2000)
"... over the last 10 years, the percentage of 2nd graders with hearing loss has increased 2.8 times; hearing loss in 8th graders has increased over 4 times." (Montgomery and Fujukawa 1992)
The Dangerous Decibels mission is to significantly reduce the prevalance of noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing in the ear) through exhibits, educational outreach, and research.
