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Associations between medical conditions and auditory dysfunction in US Veterans
Leslie D Grush1, Kelly M Reavis1,2, Susan E Griest1,3
1VA RR&D National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research (NCRAR), Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA.
International Journal of Audiology
|May 9, 2022
Summary
Non-otologic medical conditions are linked to low-frequency hearing loss and tinnitus in young Veterans. Managing these conditions may improve hearing health outcomes for service members.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Epidemiology
- Military Health
Background:
- Auditory dysfunction, including hearing loss and tinnitus, is prevalent in military populations.
- Non-otologic medical conditions are increasingly recognized as potential contributors to overall health, but their impact on hearing is less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between non-otologic medical conditions and auditory dysfunction in United States military Veterans.
- To identify specific medical conditions that may increase the risk of hearing loss and tinnitus.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from the Noise Outcomes in Service members Epidemiology (NOISE) study.
- Logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between the number of medical conditions and auditory dysfunction (hearing loss and tinnitus), adjusting for confounders like noise exposure.
- Self-reported data on medical conditions and auditory symptoms were collected from 580 Veterans.
Main Results:
- Veterans with two or more non-otologic medical conditions showed increased odds of low-frequency hearing loss and tinnitus compared to those with no conditions.
- No significant association was found between multiple medical conditions and high or extended-high frequency hearing loss.
- Sleep disorders and arthritis were specifically identified as conditions associated with auditory dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Non-otologic medical conditions are associated with specific types of auditory dysfunction, namely low-frequency hearing loss and tinnitus, in young Veterans.
- These findings suggest a potential role for medical conditions in the development or exacerbation of hearing problems in this population.
- Further research is needed to determine if early management of medical conditions can mitigate the risk of future hearing loss and tinnitus.
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