Hello? Can you hear us now? Good — because we’ve got to tell you about National Protect Your Hearing Month. This October we focus on causes of hearing loss and ways to prevent it. Studies show one in five Americans older than 12 have experienced hearing loss in an ear. It can result from work-related noise exposure and leisure activities, such as sporting events or concerts. Since noise-induced hearing loss is permanent, it’s better to be proactive. While you don’t have to avoid all noise, maybe skip the front row concert tickets or opt for quiet “you” time instead.