Across the U.S., hearing loss is commonly ignored or misunderstood. Due to this fact, only about 1 in 5 people who should be treated for hearing loss receive the help they need. We strive to educate our patients about hearing loss in order to promote healthy hearing. With a basic understanding of hearing loss, you’ll be better equipped to deal with your own hearing loss or that of a loved one.
Get a jumpstart on healthy hearing by taking a look at these important hearing loss facts and figures:
- Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common type. About 25% of hearing impairments are caused by exposure to loud noise.
- At least 30 million Americans are regularly exposed to sounds at dangerous decibel levels.
- There is no cure for hearing loss, but almost all hearing loss can be treated. Prevention is the only way to protect against hearing loss.
- 1 in 8 Americans over the age of 12 has hearing loss in both ears.
- In the past 30 years, the number of people with hearing loss has doubled.
- Hearing loss affects people of all ages. Only 35% of people with hearing loss are older than 65, and the number of diagnoses amongst younger populations is increasing.
- 12,000 babies are born with permanent hearing loss in the U.S. each year.
- The sound produced by a drill, motorcycle or food processor can permanently damage your hearing in just 15 minutes.
- Hearing loss affects all demographics of people equally.
Along with understanding hearing loss, it’s important to recognize some important facts about hearing loss treatment. While there are several hearing loss treatment options, hearing aids are by far the most commonly utilized remedy.
- 95% of people with hearing loss would benefit from wearing hearing aids.
- Only 16% of Americans ages 20–69 who would benefit from hearing aids have ever tried them.
- Wearing two hearing aids instead of one improves hearing in 90% of patients.
- Digital technology has vastly improved hearing aids in the past decade.
- Most hearing aids contain two microphones, which work together to improve directionality and sound localization.
- Many of today’s hearing aids can be controlled using an app on your phone.
- Some hearing aid styles are completely invisible to others.
- About 100,000 Americans have gotten cochlear implants since they were approved by the FDA.
Hopefully these hearing loss facts helped you gain a better understanding about your hearing. If you have more questions about hearing loss or hearing aids, we’re always here to assist you. Give our friendly staff a call for more information or to set up an appointment.