Prediabetes, diabetes and hearing loss in middle age

What is it about?

This article examines glucose levels and hearing loss in Black and White middle-aged participants in a population-based research study. Hearing was assessed with an automated device across a wide range of frequencies from 250-8000 Hz, and hearing loss defined by sound detection at 25 dB or greater. Fasting glucose was used to classify participants as having normal glucose, prediabetes or diabetes. After adjusting for differences in demographics and other factors, prediabetes was not related to hearing loss, but diabetes was associated with 66% higher odds of mild hearing loss in the high frequency range.

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Why is it important?

Hearing loss is often not noticed until deficits become profound, leading to isolation due to impaired communication ability as well as dementia and cognitive decline. Early identification and treatment of prediabetes may prevent progression to diabetes This, in turn, may either prevent or reduce progression of hearing loss.