Adjustable Noise Reduction Earplugs to Prevent Tinnitus and Hearing Loss

The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that approximately 30 million Americans are exposed to daily noise levels that will likely lead to hearing loss. Indeed, dangerous noise levels are a threat to all ages. Daniel (2007) states that 1 in 8 children and teenagers (6-19 years of age) already have some level of noise induced hearing loss. As for adults, a Cochran review states millions of workers are exposed to noise levels that increase the risk of hearing loss and hearing impairment. This is especially true for those with military service; in fact, ear-related trauma from noise exposure causes the number one and two service connected disabilities in the military (tinnitus and hearing loss). The government receives 150,000 new disability claims each year for acoustic trauma even as disability payments exceed $2 billion per year. If the current trend continues hearing loss will become further widespread and the demand for hearing protection will intensify. Traditionally, hearing protection devices are treated as an afterthought because people are not aware of the real risks associated with high noise exposure, including tinnitus and hearing loss. To make the problem even worse, hearing protection devices (HPDs) are generally considered unfashionable, aesthetically unappealing, and detrimental to music appreciation according to numerous sources (Bessete, Bogoch, et al.,Kraft,2005; Vogel, et al., 2007). Specifically, Bogoch et al. state, “Individuals who were concerned about their appearance while wearing hearing protection were found in the logistic modeling to be less likely to wear hearing protection even if provided free at the door.” Currently, military personnel are often exposed to hazardous noise levels, while combat experience increases the risk of permanent hearing loss by 63% (Wells, et al 2015). When the enemy engages soldiers, soldiers will not take time to insert hearing protection. Loud gunfire will cause ringing in the ears and hearing loss. With adjustable hearing protection inserted, soldiers can communicate without reduction of sound, and then quickly and easily rotate the filter as noise levels increase. After a firefight, opening the adjustable filter will allow soldiers to communicate without bothersome and interfering ear ringing (tinnitus) from noise exposure. You Tune’s goal is to change the negative stigma linked to hearing protection, provide adjustable noise attenuation technology, and change user habits by adding interchangeable branding inserts or add additional electronic accessories their hearing protection devices.