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The association between reduced GFR and hearing loss: a cross-sectional population-based study
Eswari Vilayur1, Bamini Gopinath, David C Harris
1Centre for Transplantation and Renal Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Westmead Millennium Institute, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
Summary
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is linked to hearing loss in a large community study. Early hearing assessments for CKD patients may help preserve hearing.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Audiology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been anecdotally linked to hearing loss, but evidence primarily comes from small studies.
- This study investigates the association between nonsyndromal CKD and hearing loss in a community-based population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and age-related hearing loss.
- To determine if moderate CKD is independently associated with hearing loss.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, population-based study using data from the Blue Mountains Hearing Study (1997-2004).
- Included 2,564 participants with audiometric testing and complete renal function data.
- Moderate CKD defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m(2); hearing loss defined as average pure-tone threshold >25 dB.
Main Results:
- 513 participants (20%) had moderate CKD.
- Hearing loss was significantly more prevalent in individuals with moderate CKD (54.4%) compared to those without (28.3%).
- Moderate CKD remained independently associated with hearing loss (OR, 1.43; P = 0.006) after adjusting for multiple confounders. Severe CKD (eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m(2)) showed the highest hearing loss prevalence (73%).
Conclusions:
- Moderate CKD is independently associated with hearing loss.
- The findings suggest a potential link between kidney function and auditory health.
- Early hearing screening and intervention for CKD patients are recommended to preserve hearing.
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