Hearing Problems Culprits
Hearing Problems are Increasing all over the World
Many countries in Europe, Asia and the Americas have conducted research on hearing loss and discovered that the number of people with hearing loss is increasing everywhere. Reports suggest that the numbers will continue to increase in the next few years and give the main reasons. Hearing loss is virtually ignored by most people. You can check out Miracle Ear on Facebook to get more statistics.
The Results of Research
In the UK, it is estimated by the Commission on Hearing Loss that 20 percent of the population will experience hearing loss by 2031. In Sweden, the HRF, an organization for the hearing impaired, concludes that hearing loss has increased by 50 percent in the last 25 years. More people use hearing aids in Sweden than ever before, but it is still only a third of the people who have hearing loss. In Cyprus, REACTION Youth for the Prevention is concerned that more than 14 percent of drivers have hearing loss, which means it can be dangerous when they drive in traffic. Studies in Brazil found that 14 percent of the population has hearing problems. These are generally related to an unhealthy lifestyle that involves loud music and earphones, or work-related noise.
Earphones May Damage Hearing
The Temasek Polytechnic in Singapore did research on the youth in the city and found that more than 16 percent are at risk of developing noise-related hearing loss. This is mainly because of listening to loud music through earphones. The researchers have recommended that the city start an effective noise prevention program for the young in Singapore.
Headphones that play loud music are not the only culprits. Employees at call centers and emergency service desks use headphones all day as part of their work. Research shows that in the UK 7.6 million people are exposed to 3.5 hours of sound via a headphone everyday due to work and leisure listening. Employers are making efforts to make sure their employees do not damage their hearing at work.
Other Loud Noises
The number one injury for people who work in the military is hearing loss, tinnitus and other auditory injuries. In the U.S., 1.5 military veterans have hearing impairment that was caused by their time in the service. Since military life tends to be noisy, the answer is regular screening and testing to get an early diagnosis. Sudden blasts can damage hearing, but since there may be other more urgent injuries, damaged hearing is often not top priority.
If you believe that your hearing is not what it used to be, you may be right. First, get your hearing tested by a professional, and if needed, have a look at the amazing hearing aids available thanks to the latest technology.
