Scientists think that 20-somethings who wear hearing aids will soon become more prevalent as hearing loss is a public health issue.
The majority of people think of the elderly when they consider severe hearing loss. But all age groups have had a recent rise in hearing loss over the past few years. Hearing loss clearly isn’t an aging issue it’s a growing epidemic and the rising instances among all age groups illustrates this.
Researchers predict within the next 40 years, hearing loss rates will double in adults 20 and older. This is viewed as a public health issue by the healthcare community. One out of five individuals is, according to John Hopkins medical research, having a hard time communicating as a result of severe hearing loss.
Hearing loss is rising among all age groups and here is why researchers think that is.
Added Health Issues Can be The Consequence of Hearing Loss
It’s an awful thing to have to endure severe hearing loss. Everyday communication becomes challenging, aggravating, and exhausting. Individuals can frequently withdraw from their family and friends and stop doing the things they love. When you’re suffering from extreme hearing loss, it will be impossible to be active without seeking help.
It’s not only diminished hearing that people with neglected hearing loss suffer from. They’re also more likely to experience the following
- Injuries from recurring falls
- Other severe health problems
- Cognitive decline
- Dementia
- Depression
- Anxiety
They’re also more likely to have problems with their personal friendships and might have challenges getting basic needs met.
In addition to the affect on their personal lives, people going through hearing loss may face increased:
- Insurance rates
- Healthcare expenses
- Disability rates
- Needs for public assistance
- Accident rates
These factors demonstrate that hearing loss is a major challenge we need to combat as a society.
What’s Contributing to Increased Hearing Loss Across Multiple Generations?
The recent rise in hearing loss can be attributed to a number of factors. One factor is the increased occurrence of common conditions that can lead to hearing loss, including:
- Anxiety and unmanaged stress
- High blood pressure
- Poor diet and a lack of consistent exercise
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
These disorders and other related conditions are contributing to additional hearing loss because they’re affecting people at younger ages.
Increased prevalence of hearing loss also has a great deal to do with lifestyle. Exposure to loud sounds is more prevalent, especially in recreation areas and work environments. Modern technology is frequently loud, and we’re being exposed to loud music and other noises in more places. Young people who regularly go to the following places have the highest degree of hearing loss:
- Shooting ranges
- Gyms
- Bars, clubs, and concerts
- Factories
Additionally, many people are choosing to wear earbuds and crank their music up to dangerous volumes. And a larger number of individuals are now using painkillers, either to address chronic pain or recreationally. Opiates, aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen will increase your risk of hearing loss especially if used over a long period of time.
How is Society Responding to Hearing Loss as a Health Issue?
Local, national, and world organizations have recognized the problem. They’re working to prevent this upward trend by educating the public on hearing loss such as:
- Research
- Risk factors
- Prevention
- Treatment possibilities
Individuals are being encouraged by these organizations to:
- Have their hearing tested earlier in their lives
- Know their level of hearing loss risk
- Wear their hearing aids
Any delays in these activities make the impact of hearing loss a lot worse.
Solutions are being sought by government organizations, healthcare providers, and researchers. They’re also seeking ways to bring hearing-loss associated costs down. State-of-the-art hearing technology will be increased and lives will be substantially enhanced.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is working with scientists and organizations to develop comprehensive strategies. They are combining awareness, education, and health services to lower the danger of hearing loss among underserved groups.
Among their efforts, they’ve developed research-based guidelines for communities, which help local leaders recognize the health affects of noise. They work with communities to minimize resident’s noise exposure and teach what safe levels of noise are. They’re also pushing forward research into how hearing loss is raised with the use and abuse of opiates.
What You Can do?
Hearing loss is a public health issue so remain informed. Take measures to slow the progression of your own hearing loss and share useful information with other people.
Get your own hearing examined if you believe you’re suffering from hearing loss. If you learn you need hearing aids, make sure you wear them.
The ultimate goal is to avoid all hearing loss. When you wear your hearing aids, you help people recognize they’re not alone. You’re bringing awareness about the problem of hearing loss in your community. This awareness has the power to transform attitudes, actions, and policies.