Hearing loss is more common than we ever thought. Research coming out of Johns Hopkins Medical Centers shows a much higher incidence of hearing difficulties than has been predicted by research in the past. Their data analysis shows that nearly a fifth of all Americans ages 12 years and older have a hearing loss that is so severe that it may affect their communication.
Several earlier investigations that have estimated the prevalence of hearing loss have focused primarily on particular populations, such as children or elderly persons. This, however, is the first study that encompassed the entire United States population.
The investigators looked at data gathered from thousands of Americans since 1971. They found that overall, approximately 30 million Americans, or 12.7% of the population, have a hearing loss in both ears that is sufficient enough to affect their communication. This number increases to 48 million, or approximately 20% when including individuals who have hearing loss in at least one ear. These are much higher estimates than previous research which is estimated at approximately 21 million to 29 million Americans with hearing loss. As expected, hearing loss prevalence doubled with every decade of increasing age.
This study highlights the fact that hearing loss is a significant health issue. This is because of the relationship between hearing loss and cognitive decline, dementia, and poor physical functioning.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing difficulty in hearing, please contact Orland Hearing Aid Center at 708-448-1234 to learn about the cause of the hearing loss and appropriate treatment options.
