One in three cases of dementia could be triggered by common condition that plagues 18 million Brits
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A COMMON condition that affects millions of Brits could be responsible for one in three cases of dementia, say researchers.
Treating the condition might delay dementia for a large number of older adults, they add.
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Hearing loss could be responsible for one in three cases of dementia, according to new research
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There are currently estimated to be 982,000 people living with dementia in the UK and this is projected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040.
Older age, smoking, and excessive alcohol use are among the main risk factors for dementia.
Now a new study, published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, has revealed hearing loss may be responsible for nearly one-third of dementia cases in older adults.
Researchers found up to 32 per cent of dementia cases over an eight-year period could be attributed to clinically significant hearing loss.
Their findings suggest potential benefits from hearing interventions, such as hearing aids.
Over 18 million adults in the UK are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus.
It can be caused by a variety of factors, including age-related changes, exposure to loud noises, genetic conditions, and certain medical conditions or injuries.
As part of the new study, the researchers analysed data from 2,946 adults aged 66 to 90 years, who at the start didn't have dementia.
They were followed for up to eight years between 2011 and 2019.
'This cohort study suggests that treating hearing loss might delay dementia for a large number of older adults,' the researchers concluded.
Five simple tests that could indicate dementia
Treatment for hearing loss varies depending on the underlying cause and severity.
For many types of hearing loss, hearing aids and assistive devices are used to improve communication.
In some cases, surgery or other medical interventions may be necessary.
How to prevent hearing loss
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Wearing earplugs in noisy places can help protect your hearing
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One of the best ways to prevent hearing loss is to protect your ears from loud noise.
Avoid loud environments or activities as much as possible, wear earplugs or earmuffs when exposed to loud sounds, especially in noisy workplaces or at concerts, and reduce the volume of music, TVs, and other devices to a comfortable level.
Regular hearing check-ups can also help, especially if you have a family history of hearing loss or work in a noisy environment.
And be aware of the warning signs of hearing loss.
The NHS says common signs include:
difficulty hearing other people clearly and misunderstanding what they say, especially in noisy places
asking people to repeat themselves
listening to music or watching TV with the volume higher than other people need
difficulty hearing on the phone
finding it hard to keep up with a conversation
feeling tired or stressed from having to concentrate while listening
If you think your hearing is getting gradually worse, see your GP.
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