With a European population that is ageing rapidly, and one that is also facing increasing exposure to ambient noise, hearing loss is a growing public health concern. As a result, the need for regular hearing assessments is only becoming more important, given that early detection allows for early corrective measures – and ultimately better outcomes.
This aligns with an enhanced focus on well-being in recent years that has seen attention pivot to prevention – and not simply treatment – of health conditions. While there is much we can do in this space in terms of screening and monitoring, hearing tests are still not given the attention they deserve.
Hearing loss – a growing problem across Europe
One issue is that the problem of hearing loss is far more widespread than many realize. According to a joint report by the European Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association (EHIMA), the European Federation of Hard of Hearing People (EFHOH), and the European Association of Hearing Aid Professionals (AEA), more than one in 10 people – approximately 11.1% of the population or 59 million people – across the EU, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK self-report hearing loss. This figure rises to 20.7% among those aged 65 and older, meaning more than one in five people is living with some form of hearing loss.
Consequences of untreated hearing loss
Research consistently highlights the significant personal and societal costs associated with neglecting hearing health. Untreated hearing loss is associated with social isolation, depression, cognitive decline, and even an increased risk of dementia. Economically, the burden is substantial, with the bill for increased healthcare costs compounded by reduced productivity and inability to participate in the workforce. According to recent estimates from the World Health Organisation (WHO), the annual global cost is approximately US$ 980 billion, while in the EU, a 2019 study estimated the cost was at least €185 billion each year.
The importance of regular hearing tests
Regular hearing assessment offers multiple opportunities to detect hearing loss at its earliest stages. Identifying hearing loss as early as possible allows for the deployment of effective management strategies, which may include hearing aids, assistive listening devices, and auditory rehabilitation. It is universally accepted that early intervention drastically improves communication, emotional well-being, cognitive functioning, and social interactions, helping individuals maintain their independence and quality of life. The preservation of hearing throughout the life course is known to be a crucial aspect of healthy ageing and living well at an older age.
Yet despite a significant proportion of those who self-report hearing loss see a medical professional, there remains a significant drop out rate. For instance, in Belgium, 25% of the people who are aware of their hearing loss, do not go to their general practitioner or ENT specialist for a diagnosis. This means a significant number of people will also never receive the necessary hearing care.
And while hearing aid uptake, overall, still leaves room for improvement, the regular Eurotrak surveys, when examined over a 13 -year period, show a consistently rising uptake of hearing aids over time, with an increase from 29% in 2016 to 33% in 2020 and again to 36% by 2024. This suggests that once people undergo a hearing assessment, they are more inclined to seek out appropriate intervention.
Being proactive with hearing health
It’s clear that in order to address the growing challenge of hearing loss, hearing assessments must be integrated into routine health check-ups, especially for those over 50. Even in countries where hearing check-ups are free or subsidised, people may not avail of them. This means public awareness campaigns are required, to help educate the wider public about the initial signs of hearing loss, as well as the importance of early detection and intervention. Healthcare providers must also be encouraged to discuss hearing health with their patients on a regular basis and recommend assessments when appropriate.
Putting hearing health on a par with other health measures
As a critical component of overall well-being, hearing health must be given equal importance as other routine health check-ups. Regular hearing tests enable early detection and intervention, directly reducing the personal and societal impacts of hearing loss. National awareness campaigns, such as Germany’s www.initiative-hörgesundheit.de highlight the collaborative efforts of ENT doctors, audiologists, patient associations, and other stakeholders to promote regular hearing assessments. Additionally, fostering personal awareness is essential – platforms like hearingyou.org offer convenient online hearing tests for an initial evaluation. Making hearing assessments a priority is a major step in ensuring a better quality of life as we age, contributing to a healthier society overall.
