Many recreational situations besides rock concerts are potentially acoustically damaging. In America, he observes, loudness is equated with fun. Hearing experts concerned about the public's ignorance regarding NIHL are hoping Peter Jeffery's lawsuit and similar ones will wake the public to the problem. Far too many Americans may have to follow suit by middle age. Susan L. Narod, M.I.A., is a freelance medical writer who lives in New York City.
Otology is the branch of science concerned with the form, function, and disorders of the ear.