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Published on: March 24, 2023
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Cohort profile: Netherlands Longitudinal Study on Hearing (NL-SH)
Marieke F van Wier1,2, Lotte A Jansen3,2, Thadé Goderie3,2
1Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands m.vanwier1@amsterdamumc.nl.
BMJ Open
|April 17, 2023
Summary
The Netherlands Longitudinal Study on Hearing (NL-SH) reveals that impaired hearing significantly impacts working adults' quality of life, increasing risks for unemployment and mental health issues. This study highlights the broad health implications of hearing loss in adults.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Public Health
- Psychology
Background:
- The Netherlands Longitudinal Study on Hearing (NL-SH) is an ongoing cohort study initiated in 2006.
- It involves 2800 working-age adults (18-70 years) with normal and impaired hearing.
- Web-based assessments include hearing tests and questionnaires on various health and lifestyle factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the associations between hearing ability and psychosocial, work, and health outcomes in working adults.
- To understand the long-term impact of hearing impairment on quality of life.
- To identify factors influencing hearing ability decline.
Main Methods:
- Participants undergo speech-in-noise recognition tests to assess hearing ability.
- Web-based questionnaires collect data on hearing status, aid use, disability, coping, work outcomes, mental health, lifestyle, and technology use.
- Longitudinal follow-up at 5, 10, and 15 years allows tracking of changes over time.
Main Results:
- Reduced hearing ability is linked to poorer quality of life and health in working adults.
- Hearing ability deteriorates faster after age 50, with smoking history accelerating this decline.
- Impaired hearing is associated with increased psychological distress (depression, anxiety, loneliness) and negative work-related outcomes (unemployment, longer recovery time).
Conclusions:
- Hearing ability is a critical factor influencing the overall health and well-being of working-age adults.
- Early identification and intervention for hearing loss are crucial for mitigating adverse psychosocial and occupational consequences.
- The NL-SH provides valuable insights into the multifaceted impact of hearing impairment.
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