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White matter hyperintensities predict low frequency hearing in older adults
Mark A Eckert1, Stefanie E Kuchinsky, Kenneth I Vaden
1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425-5500, USA. eckert@musc.edu
Summary
Vascular disease contributes to age-related hearing loss, particularly affecting low-frequency hearing. This study found cerebral small vessel disease linked to declining low-frequency hearing in older adults, especially women with high blood pressure.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Vascular disease is a proposed contributor to presbycusis (age-related hearing loss).
- Previous human studies show mixed results, often linking vascular health to low-frequency hearing in older women.
- In vivo assessment of cochlear artery health is challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between cerebral small vessel disease and age-related hearing changes.
- To determine if this association specifically impacts low-frequency versus high-frequency hearing.
- To examine gender differences and the influence of hypertension history.
Main Methods:
- Used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to estimate periventricular white matter hyperintensities (WMH) as a marker of cerebral small vessel disease.
- Assessed hearing metrics, focusing on low and high frequencies.
- Analyzed data from 72 older adults, considering age, sex, and history of high blood pressure.
Main Results:
- Periventricular white matter hyperintensities (WMH) were significantly associated with a low-frequency hearing metric.
- This association was independent of age but more pronounced in women and individuals with a history of high blood pressure.
- No significant association was found for high-frequency hearing.
Conclusions:
- Cerebral small vessel disease is linked to age-related decline in low-frequency hearing.
- Vascular health appears to be a significant factor in specific patterns of hearing loss associated with aging.
- Findings support vascular decline as a mechanism for age-related low-frequency hearing impairment.
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