Abbotsford Mayor Bruce Banman had his hearing screened last Tuesday to help promote May's National Better Hearing Month.
The test took place at Sonus Hearing Care Center on South Fraser Way.
In an effort to increase the quality of life for those who have hearing loss and reduce the stigma associated with it, the centre offers complimentary hearing screenings year-round.
“Millions suffer from hearing loss but since it happens gradually, most people don't recognize the signs and eventually have it pointed out to them by a friend or family member,” said Randi Monsell, regional business development manager.
Hearing loss is the fastest growing, and one of the most prevalent, chronic conditions facing Canadians today, and it affects roughly three million residents.
Signs that someone you know is experiencing loss include: that the TV or radio volume keeps getting louder, they ask you to repeat yourself more than once when speaking with them, and they withdraw from social situations more than usual.
"Unfortunately, untreated hearing loss can lead to feelings of isolation, sadness, depression, anxiety, paranoia, and poor social relationships," Monsell said.
She said the sooner the problem is addressed, the more effectively it can be treated.
For more information, visit canada.sonus.com.