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Hearing loss clue uncovered

Researchers have discovered a novel genetic mutation in the SERPINB6 gene that causes malfunction of an inhibitor enzyme, leading to accelerated hearing loss. In humans, individuals with this mutation typically lose their hearing from 20 years of age, while mice with the condition start losing their hearing at three weeks old.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJun 11, 2013

Study: Insomnia takes toll on tinnitus patients

A new study from Henry Ford Hospital found a significant association between insomnia and the severity of perceived tinnitus symptoms. Patients with insomnia reported greater emotional distress from tinnitus, highlighting the need for evaluation and treatment of insomnia patients to reduce tinnitus symptom severity.

Hearing loss linked to 3-fold risk of falling

A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers links hearing loss to a three-fold increased risk of falling among the elderly. The findings suggest that people with hearing loss may have reduced awareness of their environment and an increased cognitive load, making them more prone to falls.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2012

Turn down the iPod to save your hearing

A recent study by Tel Aviv University researchers found that one in four teenagers is at risk of early hearing loss due to excessive music listening on personal listening devices. The study recommends adopting European standards limiting output to 100 decibels and promoting awareness among schools and parents.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalInternational Journal of Audiology·DateDec 28, 2011

1 in 5 Americans has hearing loss

A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that nearly 30 million Americans have severe hearing loss, with prevalence doubling every decade. The finding suggests that many more people than previously thought are affected by this condition, which has significant consequences for cognitive decline and physical functioning.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 14, 2011

Motorcycle helmets hard on hearing

Researchers found that the area underneath the helmet and near the chin bar generates significant noise that reaches riders' sensitive eardrums. Future tests aim to design quieter helmets using the findings, which may be used to save riders' ears.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateJul 29, 2011

Exposure to secondhand smoke associated with hearing loss in adolescents

A recent study found that adolescents exposed to secondhand smoke are at a higher risk of hearing loss, with over 80% of participants unaware they had impairment. The study suggests that SHS could be considered a risk factor for hearing loss, highlighting the need for close monitoring and education among exposed adolescents.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJul 18, 2011

Study: Lowering cost doesn't increase hearing aid purchases

A new study by Henry Ford Health shows that patients with mild hearing loss are motivated to purchase hearing aids based on factors other than cost, including perception of need and insurance coverage. Despite significant advancements in hearing aid technology and comfort, many adults with mild hearing loss do not acquire devices.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalThe Hearing Journal·DateMay 10, 2011

Tinnitus caused by too little inhibition of brain auditory circuits, Pitt-led study says

A new study from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine reveals that tinnitus is caused by a lack of inhibition in key neural pathways of the brain's auditory center. The research suggests that increasing GABA-mediated inhibition may be an effective treatment for tinnitus, and a potential new approach to drug development.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2011

Hearing loss and dementia linked in study

Seniors with hearing loss are more likely to develop dementia over time than those with normal hearing. The study found a significant link between the two conditions, with the risk of developing dementia increasing by twofold, threefold, and fivefold for individuals with mild, moderate, and severe hearing loss.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateFeb 15, 2011

Workplace noise-related hearing loss affects sleep quality -- Ben Gurion U. researchers

A study by Ben-Gurion University researchers found that workers with occupational-related hearing loss experienced impaired sleep quality, including insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness. The study also discovered a significant correlation between tinnitus symptoms and sleep disruptions in workers exposed to harmful noise.

Passive smokers at increased risk of hearing loss

Non-smokers exposed to tobacco smoke are at risk of hearing loss, with men and older individuals more likely to experience high-frequency hearing loss. Even low levels of passive smoking can continue the progression of hearing loss in former smokers.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateNov 15, 2010

Prolonged mobile phone use may be linked to tinnitus

A small study published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that regular mobile phone use for at least four years may double the risk of developing chronic tinnitus. The prevalence of chronic tinnitus is increasing, with around 10-15% of people in developed countries affected.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJul 19, 2010

Restore hearing thanks to new drug

A new drug called ADAC has been found to restore hearing in rats with noise-induced hearing loss. Early treatment with multiple injections of ADAC significantly attenuated noise-induced hearing loss and improved sensory hair cell survival.

Low heritability of tinnitus

A new study published in Archives of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery reveals that the relative importance of genetic factors in tinnitus is low. The research found that environmental factors account for 89% of tinnitus variance, with only 11% attributed to genetic effects.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateApr 20, 2010

Antibiotic found to protect hearing in mice

Researchers discovered that a commonly used antibiotic, kanamycin, protects mouse ears from noise-induced hearing loss when given in low doses. The finding has significant implications for the development of new treatments and could benefit groups such as premature babies, soldiers, and airline workers.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of the Association for Research in Otolaryngology·DateJan 27, 2010

Study: The new buzz on detecting tinnitus

A new study uses magnetoencephalography (MEG) to detect the site of perception of tinnitus in the brain, allowing physicians to target specific areas with treatments. The imaging technique reveals activity in both hemispheres of the brain for patients with bilateral tinnitus, providing hope for future interventional strategies.

Got ear plugs? You may want to sport them on the subway and other mass transit, researchers say

Researchers found Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) subways had the highest average noise levels in New York City, with levels high enough to increase the risk of noise-induced hearing loss. The study highlights the need for increased transit infrastructure maintenance and personal protection measures to reduce noise exposure.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJun 18, 2009

Many children with hearing loss also have eye disorders

A study found that nearly 1 in 5 children with sensorineural hearing loss also have ocular disorders. Genetic testing showed that GJB2 mutations are associated with hearing loss but not additional anomalies. Early diagnosis and treatment of eye problems can benefit these patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateFeb 16, 2009