Knowledge Hub
Hearing Health Statistics
Hearing loss is a significant and growing global health issue, affecting over 1.5 billion people worldwide. As the population ages and environmental factors like noise exposure increase, the prevalence of hearing impairment continues to rise.
1.5 billion people have some degree of hearing loss. Over 5% (430m) of the population require rehabilitation.
16% average of hearing loss in adults, results from exposure to excessive noise in the workplace.
50%, people 12-35 years, are at risk of hearing loss from exposure to unsafe levels of sounds in recreational settings.
1 in 5 teens will experience some form of hearing loss. 30% higher than it was 20 years ago.
1.5 billion people have some degree of hearing loss. Over 5% (430m) of the population require rehabilitation.
16% average of hearing loss in adults, results from exposure to excessive noise in the workplace.
50%, people 12-35 years, are at risk of hearing loss from exposure to unsafe levels of sounds in recreational settings.
1 in 5 teens will experience some form of hearing loss. 30% higher than it was 20 years ago.
1+ billion young adults are at risk of permanent hearing loss from unsafe listening practices. Avoidable hearing loss.
60% of hearing loss in children can be prevented. 12.5% of kids 6-19 have hearing loss as a result of listening to loud music (earbuds at unsafe volumes)
In 2050, 2.5 billion people are projected to have some degree of hearing loss. 700 million will require hearing rehabilitation.
Source: 2022 World Report on Hearing.
World Health Organisation
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1+ billion young adults are at risk of permanent hearing loss from unsafe listening practices. Avoidable hearing loss.
60% of hearing loss in children can be prevented. 12.5% of kids 6-19 have hearing loss as a result of listening to loud music (earbuds at unsafe volumes)
In 2050, 2.5 billion people are projected to have some degree of hearing loss. 700 million will require hearing rehabilitation.
Source: 2022 World Report on Hearing.
World Health Organisation
Click the logo to read more.
Causes of hearing loss
Hearing loss can be caused by several factors, some of which are preventable. Age-related hearing loss occurs naturally as people grow older, due to changes in the structures of the ear. Noise-induced hearing loss results from prolonged exposure to loud sounds, which can damage the delicate structures of the ear. Infections, especially in childhood, like middle ear infections or meningitis, can also cause hearing loss.
Genetic factors play a role, as some people inherit conditions that either cause hearing loss from birth or lead to progressive loss over time. Injuries to the ear, whether from trauma or accidents, can also damage hearing structures. Certain medications, such as some antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs, can be ototoxic, meaning they harm the ear and lead to permanent hearing loss.
Chronic health conditions like diabetes and hypertension can increase the risk of hearing damage, while physical obstructions like excessive earwax or foreign objects can cause temporary hearing loss if left untreated.
Preventing hearing loss involves protecting ears from loud noises, ensuring vaccinations are up to date to prevent infections, and detecting hearing loss early to manage it effectively.
Sound environments are NOT the same.
Sound environments vary greatly, and the impact they have on our hearing can differ depending on their intensity and duration. For example, listening to music at 105 decibels for just 15 minutes can cause potential damage to hearing due to the high volume level. In contrast, an 85 decibel sound environment, such as a busy street or heavy traffic, is generally considered safe for prolonged exposure, typically around 8 hours. However, even at 85db, it’s important to limit the time spent in such environments to prevent long-term hearing issues.
