According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.5 billion people, or 20% of the global population, have hearing loss. Of this number, 430 million have disabling hearing loss; however, this number is expected to grow to 700 million people by the year 2050. The estimated global cost of this condition? It’s $980 billion annually.
Other Hearing Loss Statistics
Here are some other statistics about hearing loss on a global scale:
- 34 million children experience deafness and hearing loss.
- 60% of these cases are preventable.
- More than 1 billion young people (ages 12 to 35) are at risk of hearing loss due to recreational noise exposure.
- 30% of people over age 60 have hearing loss.
- Low- and middle-income countries have a disproportionate burden of hearing loss; global hearing aid production covers only 3% of the need in these countries.
- 50% of hearing loss cases can be prevented through public health measures.
How Can Hearing Loss Be Prevented?
Many cases of hearing loss can be prevented through public health measures. For example, audio standards for personal audio systems and devices can be implemented. In addition, people can be educated about the importance of wearing hearing protection such as earplugs.
Other conditions, such as measles, meningitis, rubella and mumps, can lead to hearing loss, as well. Preventing these conditions through vaccinations and hygiene programs can improve rates of hearing loss and deafness.
Early screening and intervention in the form of surgery or technology in childhood can also mitigate the risks and side effects of untreated hearing loss.
What Are the Symptoms of Hearing Loss?
If you suspect you or a loved one is exhibiting symptoms of hearing loss, look for the signs, which include:
- Turning up the TV or radio much louder than others prefer.
- Having an especially difficult time following along in situations with a lot of background noise, including restaurants like The Mixing Bowl in Springfield.
- Frequently asking people to repeat themselves.
- Difficulty talking on the phone or in other situations when visual cues are absent.
- Feeling tired or stressed after lengthy conversations.
For more information about hearing loss or to schedule an appointment with a hearing loss expert, call ENT Specialists Of Northern Virginia today.