What’s new:
A comprehensive study conducted by researchers from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California has discovered that regular use of hearing aids is associated with a 24% reduced risk of mortality for adults with hearing loss.
Why it matters:
With hearing loss affecting an estimated 1.6 billion people globally, and projected to impact 2.5 billion by 2050, the potential health benefits of hearing aids extend beyond improved communication. The findings suggest that these devices could also contribute to longer life expectancy, which is significant considering only about 10% of individuals who could benefit from hearing aids use them.
By the numbers:
The study analyzed data from nearly 10,000 adults in the US, tracking their mortality over an average of 10 years after hearing evaluations. A clear distinction emerged showing a consistent 25% lower risk of mortality for regular hearing aid users compared to those who never utilized the devices, even after adjusting for various demographic and health factors.
The backdrop:
Previous studies have indicated that untreated hearing loss can result in decreased lifespan and is linked to social isolation, depression, and dementia. However, before this study, little work had been done on whether hearing aids can positively influence mortality rates.
Dr. Janet Choi’s perspective:
Lead researcher Dr. Janet Choi emphasizes the importance of the findings and expresses hope that this will encourage more people to utilize hearing aids. She stresses the necessity for health organizations to make these devices more accessible and affordable.
Lived experience:
Choi, who was born with hearing loss, relates personally to the struggles of finding effective hearing aids. She is now committed to developing a AI-driven database to assist patients in choosing the right hearing aids, aiming to reduce barriers and improve overall hearing care.
What’s next:
Since the study did not explore why hearing aids may extend life, further research is needed to understand the connection between hearing aid use and a reduction in mortality risk more deeply. Choi also calls for more significant efforts to overcome the challenges that prevent widespread adoption of hearing aids.
Bottom line:
Hearing aid use not only improves the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss by enabling better communication but may also contribute to a longer, healthier life, creating an urgent case for addressing the barriers preventing their widespread usage.
This story was first published on jpost.com.