Hearing Loss
Articles tagged with Hearing Loss
Meta-earplugs reduce booming voice effect, low-frequency rumbling sounds
Researchers developed meta-earplugs with Helmholtz resonators to address low-frequency sound issues. The earplugs use precise tuning of reflected sound waves to relieve pressure and increase protection.
Hearing restoration from gene therapy for inherited deafness lasts years, new trial results show
A new international study shows that gene therapy targeting the OTOF gene successfully restored hearing in most participants, with significant improvements in speech perception and language skills. The treatment remained safe and effective for up to 2.5 years, offering new hope for individuals with inherited deafness.
Research links tinnitus with serotonin
A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found a link between elevated serotonin levels and tinnitus behavioral symptoms. The research suggests that clinicians should recognize and validate patient reports of medication-associated increases in tinnitus when prescribing antidepressants like SSRIs.
Assistance dogs interpret needs of the person they assist non-verbally
A study by the University of Turku reveals that assistance dogs actively contribute to their human's care through continuous interpretation and trust. They anticipate health status, provide mobility assistance, and offer emotional support in ways that humans cannot.
Hearing loss makes it harder for cognitively impaired older adults to walk and think simultaneously
A study by Concordia University found that individuals with hearing loss exhibit worse dual-task performance, including slower walking and less stable gait. Exercise and cognitive training can improve these outcomes, but the effects vary by sex and severity of hearing loss.
Lower music volume levels in fitness class and perceived exercise intensity
A comparative effectiveness study found that lower music volume levels in group fitness classes did not significantly impact perceived exercise intensity. The research suggests implementing safer sound practices and increased awareness on hearing protection to minimize the risk of noise-induced hearing loss.
Hearing loss contributes to cognitive decline after childhood cancer treatment
A study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that radiation therapy contributes to hearing loss in children treated for brain tumors, leading to greater cognitive decline. Children with severe hearing loss experienced a more significant decline in cognitive measures compared to those without.
Exploring the link between hearing loss and cognitive decline
Research finds a specific link between hearing loss and cognitive decline in presbycusis, a neurodegenerative disorder. The Functional-Structural Ratio (FSR) identifies reduced connections between brain areas involved in sound processing and memory, associated with worse hearing thresholds and poorer performance on memory and executive...
Research reveals impact of tinnitus on employment
A new study found that nearly one in five adults with tinnitus have had to reduce their working hours or leave employment due to the condition. The research also revealed that targeted interventions, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, can improve work productivity and overall wellbeing.
USF Health launches nation’s first fully integrated institute for voice, hearing and swallowing care and research
The USF Health Institute for Voice and Hearing Innovation is a state-of-the-art facility that combines clinical research and comprehensive patient care for voice, hearing and swallowing disorders. Every patient becomes a research partner, driving innovations from lab to real-world clinical practice.
Childhood deafness: New insights to improve genetic counseling for families
Researchers identified over 200 distinct mutations associated with congenital deafness, including new and family-specific variants. The study provides guidance on communication methods and supports regular ophthalmological follow-up.
Software platform helps users find the best hearing protection
The Hearing Protection Optimization Tool translates acoustic and psychoacoustic factors into clear visuals, helping users compare different hearing protection devices. The tool matches users with regulatory-approved HPDs based on their noise environment and preferences.
New UCF mobile health clinic increases access to care
The UCF Health Mobile Health Clinic provides free high-quality healthcare services to underserved communities, serving as a real-world classroom for medical and nursing students. The clinic aims to reduce preventable conditions and improve long-term health through comprehensive screenings, chronic disease monitoring, and education.
Study reveals long-term associations of strangulation-related brain injury from intimate partner violence
A federally funded study by Mass General Brigham investigators found that self-reported vision problems and traumatic stress are experienced years after strangulation in women who have experienced intimate partner violence. The study identified three major subgroups: strangulation alone, altered consciousness, and full loss of consciou...
The 25-year incidence and progression of hearing loss in the Framingham offspring study
The Framingham offspring study found that approximately 10% of participants experienced significant hearing loss over a 25-year period, with the prevalence increasing with age. The study suggests that early detection and intervention may help prevent or slow the progression of hearing loss.
Guidelines for treating hereditary hearing loss with gene therapy from international experts
International experts have established guidelines for gene therapy in hereditary hearing loss, emphasizing patient-centered care and respect for diversity. The guidelines outline frameworks for clinical trials, including patient selection criteria, surgical procedures, and safety evaluations.
Internal migrants in the U.S. age with fewer disabilities, study finds
A study of 5.4 million older Americans found that internal migrants have significantly better health outcomes than those who remain in their birth state. Those from abroad also showed a stronger health advantage when education levels were taken into account.
UChicago scientists discover gene mutation linked to deafness — and identify possible treatments
Researchers identified a gene mutation in CPD associated with rare congenital hearing loss, which disrupts the inner ear's sensory cells. Two potential approaches were found to improve cell survival and reduce hearing loss: arginine supplements and sildenafil.
Countries with highest reported levels of hearing loss have lowest use of hearing aids
The study found that countries with the highest reported prevalence of hearing loss, such as China and South Korea, also had the lowest levels of hearing aid use. Conversely, adults in Northern Europe, USA, and Western Europe were most likely to report using a hearing aid. Men were generally more likely than women to report difficultie...
Novel gene therapy for hereditary hearing loss developed at Tel Aviv University
Researchers have introduced a novel gene therapy method to treat impairments in hearing and balance caused by inner ear dysfunction. The treatment, utilizing an advanced AAV vector, prevents hair cell degeneration and preserves normal hearing and balance.
Researchers keep a mammalian cochlea alive outside the body for the first time
Scientists have successfully kept a tiny sliver of the mammalian cochlea alive and functional outside the body for the first time. The innovation allowed them to capture the live biomechanics of the cochlea's remarkable auditory powers, including exceptional sensitivity and sharp frequency tuning.
Laying the foundation for gene editing for inherited progressive deafness in adults, DFNA41
Researchers developed a one-time gene editing treatment that restored hearing and balance in adult mice with DFNA41, a genetic form of progressive deafness. The therapy successfully disabled the harmful mutation while preserving the normal gene, leading to long-term hearing and balance restoration.
Musicians do not demonstrate long-believed advantage in processing sound
A large-scale study from the University of Michigan and University of Minnesota found no association between musical training and enhanced neural processing of sounds at early stages of auditory processing. Musicians demonstrated no greater ability to process speech in background sounds or changes in pitch than non-musicians.
Stigma silences those with hearing loss
A recent study reveals that nearly 60% of people with hearing loss feel embarrassed or uncomfortable sharing their struggles, while professionals often focus on stigma around hearing aids. The research highlights the need to challenge outdated stereotypes and encourages open conversations about hearing loss.
Innovative imaging tool could improve diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss
Researchers adapted optical coherence tomography (OCT) to visualize tiny structures in the human inner ear, correlating fluid levels with a patient's degree of hearing loss. The findings may help clinicians diagnose and treat hearing loss more quickly and effectively.
For adults with hearing loss, linear amplification (amplification across all sound levels, available with some hearing aids) might restore their ability to recognize emotion in voices
Research suggests that linear amplification can improve vocal emotion recognition in individuals with mild-to-moderate sensorineural hearing loss. The study found that amplification across all sound levels can enhance the ability to recognize emotions in voices, particularly in middle-aged and older adults.
Researchers develop new approach for generating inner ear hair cells
Researchers have created a more efficient and controlled method to produce lab-grown inner ear hair cells, offering new hope for hearing loss research. The innovative approach uses a doxycycline-inducible transcription factor system, significantly increasing efficiency and reducing time compared to existing methods.
Regrowing hearing cells: New gene functions discovered in zebrafish offer clues for future hearing loss treatments
Scientists at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research identified two distinct genes that regulate regeneration of sensory cells in zebrafish. The discovery may guide future studies on hearing loss and regenerative medicine in mammals, including humans.
Understanding the role of pigmentation in hereditary hearing loss
A study published in Neurobiology of Disease found that melanin degradation is impaired in genetically engineered mice lacking the SLC26A4 gene, leading to chronic inflammation and macrophage activation. The researchers propose a novel pathological cascade where melanin accumulation exacerbates hearing loss in pigmented individuals.
Hearing devices significantly improve social lives of those with hearing loss
A study from the University of Southern California found that adults with hearing loss who used hearing aids or cochlear implants were more socially engaged and felt less isolated compared to those who didn't use them. The researchers also found that these devices can help reduce loneliness and improve social quality of life.
Social outcomes among adults with hearing aids and cochlear implants
A systematic review and meta-analysis reveals that adults with hearing loss can enhance social engagement and functional outcomes by using hearing aids or cochlear implants. The study suggests that these devices should be encouraged for individuals with hearing loss to potentially improve their quality of life.
Gene therapy restored hearing in deaf patients
A new study conducted at Karolinska Institutet reports that gene therapy improved hearing in all ten patients with congenital deafness or severe hearing impairment. The treatment was well-tolerated and showed remarkable results, with the majority of patients recovering some hearing after just one month.
University of Oldenburg celebrates sensational success after securing funding for three Clusters of Excellence
The University of Oldenburg has secured funding for three research clusters: Hearing4all, Ocean Floor, and NaviSense. These clusters aim to improve hearing loss prediction, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as animal navigation research. The funding enables the continuation of high-quality research with social relevance.
Hearing aid service models, technology, and patient outcomes
A randomized clinical trial found that over-the-counter and audiologist-assisted services yielded similar outcomes to prescription hearing aids. High-end and low-end hearing aids showed comparable results, challenging the need for higher-cost high-end models.
Loneliness increases risk of hearing loss: evidence from a large-scale UK biobank study
A large-scale UK biobank study found that loneliness increases the risk of hearing loss, with a 24% higher risk for lonely individuals compared to non-lonely counterparts. The study also identified distinct pathways through which loneliness contributes to hearing loss, including inflammation and chronic diseases.
USPSTF recommendation on screening for syphilis infection during pregnancy
The USPSTF recommends early, universal screening for syphilis infection during pregnancy to prevent congenital syphilis. Untreated syphilis can cause premature birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth in the fetus.
Addressing hearing loss may reduce isolation among the elderly
A new study found that providing hearing aids and advice on their use can help preserve social connections in older adults, reducing loneliness. The study showed that those treated for hearing loss retained one additional social connection over a three-year period compared to those who received no treatment.
Widespread hearing problems among newly arrived in Sweden
A study found that 17% of newly arrived immigrants in Sweden reported hearing conversation difficulties, with over half experiencing established hearing problems. The study highlights the crucial role of hearing in language acquisition and social integration for this population.
Hearing loss in middle age may accelerate cognitive decline
A study on Brazilians in their 50s found that those with hearing loss experienced faster cognitive decline than expected for their age. This highlights the importance of addressing hearing health to prevent dementia, which is a growing concern worldwide.
Significant gaps in NHS care for patients who are deaf or have hearing loss, study finds
A study found significant communication barriers in NHS care for patients who are deaf or have hearing loss, with many missing half or more of crucial information. The research team recommends improvements, such as better access to British Sign Language interpreters and accessibility accommodations.
Sex- and race-specific prevalence of hearing loss across the adult lifespan and associated factors
A cohort study of 1,787 adults found significant differences in hearing loss prevalence among white male individuals (highest) and Black female individuals (lowest). The study highlights the importance of tailored interventions to reduce hearing loss risk across populations.
New “hidden in plain sight” facial and eye biomarkers for tinnitus severity could unlock path to testing treatments
A study published in Science Translational Medicine found novel biomarkers for tinnitus that correlate with nervous system's 'fight, flight, or freeze' response. Facial movements and pupil dilation measured while listening to unpleasant sounds can predict tinnitus severity.
App-based hearing screenings in family practice may improve hearing disorder diagnosis
Tablet-based hearing tests were found to be feasible and acceptable in routine family medicine, with 27% of screened patients showing some level of hearing impairment. The study suggests that these tests may help general practitioners diagnose hearing disorders more accurately.
Trouble hearing in noisy places and crowded spaces? Researchers say new BU-developed algorithm could help hearing aid users
A new brain-inspired algorithm developed at BU can help hearing aids tune out interference and isolate single talkers in a crowd of voices. In testing, researchers found it could improve word recognition accuracy by 40 percentage points relative to current hearing aid algorithms.
Population attributable fraction of incident dementia associated with hearing loss
A cohort study found that hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of incident dementia in older adults. Treating hearing loss may help delay dementia onset for a large number of people, suggesting potential benefits for dementia prevention.
Communication challenges for individuals with hearing impairments during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study
A cross-sectional study found that 55.6% of individuals with hearing impairment experienced communication difficulties caused by others wearing face masks during the pandemic. Those with daily support and older adults were less affected, while those who went out more or had more severe hearing loss reported greater difficulty.
New method reveals how the brain and inner ear are formed
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a method to track the development of cells in the nervous system and inner ear. The technique, known as ectoderm barcoding, reveals that cells in the inner ear develop from two main types of stem cells.
Terahertz imaging: a breakthrough in non-invasive cochlear visualization
Researchers at Waseda University developed a new technique using terahertz imaging to visualize the internal structure of the mouse cochlea with high resolution. The study successfully demonstrated the potential of THz imaging as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for auditory disorders and other medical applications.
Terahertz imaging reveals new views of internal cochlear structure
Researchers have developed a non-invasive method to visualize the internal details of the mouse cochlea with micron-level spatial resolution using terahertz imaging. This technique has the potential to lead to a new diagnostic method for ear diseases and enable on-site diagnosis of hearing impairments.
Exploring why it is harder to hear in noisy environments
A new eNeuro study explores how competing sounds affect subcortical brain activity, revealing increasingly smaller responses as multiple speech streams are introduced. This finding has implications for understanding hearing loss and difficulties with auditory processing in noisy environments.
Make Indian sign language an official language and open more schools for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, Cambridge study advises Indian government
A Cambridge study highlights the need for India to recognize its own sign language, Indian Sign Language (ISL), as a constitutional right. The study also calls for increased investment in education and training programs for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, including more schools and higher education institutions.
Study highlights noninvasive hearing aid
A new type of hearing aid using an array of micro-epidermal actuators can significantly improve the hearing experience for patients with conductive hearing loss. The device uses vibrations on the skin behind the ear to bypass the ear canal and directly reach the inner ear, enhancing sound quality and control.
Nerve fibers in the inner ear adjust sound levels and help compensate for hearing loss in mice, study finds
A new study using OCT imaging revealed that nerve fibers in the inner ear adjust sound levels and compensate for hearing loss. In healthy mice, cochlear activity remained stable, but in mice with genetic hearing loss, cochlear function increased to enhance sensitivity.
The prevalence of older Americans without disabilities increases substantially between 2008 and 2017
A study published in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus found that the prevalence of older Americans without disabilities increased from 61% in 2008 to 65% in 2017. This represents a significant improvement, with an additional 2.07 million older Americans potentially having had disabilities if trends had remained constant.
How does the brain cut through noise to understand speech?
A team led by University of Rochester professor Edmund Lalor aims to understand how the brain processes audiovisual information to improve speech comprehension for individuals with cochlear implants. They will use noninvasive electroencephalography (EEG) brainwave measurements to study how people respond to multisensory speech.
Hearing impairment may be a sign of increased risk of Parkinson’s disease
Researchers from Lancaster University found a significant link between hearing impairment and an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The study analyzed data from the UK Biobank, revealing a 57% higher risk for every 10-decibel increase in baseline hearing loss.
Gene discovery sheds light on common ear condition in people with Down syndrome
Researchers have identified the gene DYRK1A as a key driver of 'glue ear' in people with Down syndrome, a middle ear condition commonly known as otitis media with effusion. The discovery paves the way for future targeted therapies to address hearing loss in patients.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve, Mass Eye and Ear aim to prevent hearing loss by protecting inner-ear cells
Researchers at Case Western Reserve and Mass Eye and Ear aim to prevent hearing loss by protecting inner-ear cells from damage caused by noise exposure. They will study the effects of calcium overload on cochlear hair cells and identify novel therapeutic targets to treat acquired hearing loss.
Project to document medical ableism experienced by people with disabilities
A new project at the University of Kansas aims to examine medical ableism and its effects on health outcomes among people with disabilities. The study will gather information directly from individuals with disabilities through the National Survey on Health and Disability.