A resolution expressing support for the designation of October 2017 as "National Audiology Awareness Month".

Whereas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hearing loss is the third most common chronic physical condition in the United States;

Whereas the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have found that 24 percent of adults in the United States, or 40,000,000 individuals, may have noise-induced hearing loss in 1 or both ears;

Whereas, although the prevalence of hearing loss increases with age, approximately 40 percent of individuals with hearing loss are under the age of 60;

Whereas people frequently delay seeking assessment and treatment for their hearing loss;

Whereas audiologists are health care professionals who diagnose, treat, and manage hearing loss and balance disorders;

Whereas audiologists treat patients in many different settings, including private practice, hospitals, schools, Veterans Health Administration hospitals, and otolaryngology offices;

Whereas October 2017 would be an appropriate month to designate as “National Audiology Awareness Month”; and

Whereas there is a need for greater awareness on the part of the public regarding issues related to the hearing and balance care provided by audiologists: Now, therefore, be it