AZ SCR1023

Designates March 3, 2021 as World Hearing Day in Arizona to raise awareness about hearing loss prevention and ear care.

Highlights that more than 37 million American adults (15%) report hearing trouble, yet fewer than 30% of adults aged 70+ and 16% of adults aged 20-69 who could benefit from hearing aids have used them.

Notes untreated hearing loss costs the U.S. economy $122 billion annually in lost earnings and can reduce household income by up to $12,000 per year.

Recognizes hearing loss is linked to cognitive decline, dementia, falls, depression, isolation, and may indicate underlying medical conditions such as infection, tumor, otosclerosis, or Meniere's disease.

Encourages Arizona citizens to protect their hearing and seek services from licensed hearing health care professionals for regular hearing checks.