Hearing Loss- A Risk for 2 Million Students in School Bands

As reported in USA Today, hearing loss is a threat to the everyday health of the estimated 2 million children participating in middle and high school bands throughout the USA.  Consider the measurements taken by Joseph Keefe, a 2004 graduate and member of the marching band at Duke University; show that band members were exposed to sound levels of more than 100 decibels for hours at a stretch.  Decibels reaching 120 is considered the threshold of pain. At that intensity, unprotected ears can be damaged in just 15 minutes, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

Given this information, it is critical to educate parents, students and school systems about the risk of noise induced hearing loss and the numerous options available to protect the precious gift of hearing. “It is inconceivable that a football or hockey player would be allowed to play without a helmet, why is it acceptable for a band member to play without hearing protection?  Health Enterprises is committed to continuing our outreach program to school band directors across the country to raise this important issue”, commented Brendan Leonard, president of Health Enterprises, Inc.

There are many product options to help protect band members against the risk of noise induced hearing loss.  These options range from expensive electronic products costing hundreds of dollars to inexpensive ($12.99) yet highly effective products like the Premium Music earplugs from Health Enterprises. This unique design reduces harmful noise across all frequencies without impacting the ability to hear direction and play music.

Health Enterprises, Inc. is a leading supplier of branded and private label consumer healthcare products sold in retailers across the globe.  For more information about Health Enterprises and its complete product line, visit www.healthenterprises.com.

CONTACT:

Health Enterprises, Inc., 508-695-0727, Sales-HE@healthenterprises.com