International Noise Awareness Day Date in the current year: April 24, 2024

The term “noise” refers to any unwanted sound. We are constantly surrounded by noise that can range from comparatively quite to obnoxiously loud. While quiet noise is simply annoying, loud noise can be harmful. Frequent exposure to prolonged loud noise often leads to noise-induced hearing loss. Noise not only annoys us and damages hearing, but it can also elevate blood pressure, cause anxiety, insomnia and some other health problems.

International Noise Awareness Day was launched by the Center for Hearing in Communication in 1996 to raise awareness of the harmful effects of noise and encourage people to do something about bothersome noise where they live. The Center coordinates events held around the world.

Most common events held to mark the occasion include meetings with acousticians and otolaryngologists, public lectures, free hearing screenings, handing out hearing protection, noise level measuring actions, etc. Each year, the Center for Hearing in Communication runs a survey to determine the noisiest country in the world.