Historical review of efforts to reduce noise‐induced hearing loss in the United States

Background Noise‐induced hearing loss is a centuries‐old problem that is still prevalent in the United States and worldwide. Aim To describe highlights in the development of hearing loss prevention in the U.S. from World War II to the present. Methods Literature review. Results Approaches to occupational noise‐induced hearing loss prevention in the United States over the past seven decades are described using a hierarchy of controls framework and an interdisciplinary perspective. Historical timelines and developmental milestones related to occupational noise‐induced hearing loss prevention are summarized as a life course. Discussion Lessons are drawn for other countries in their hearing conservation efforts. Conclusion Future developments building on the hearing loss prevention work of the past 70 years can prevent the problem of occupational NIHL in the 21st century. Am. J. Ind. Med. 60:569–577, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.