Hearing Loss Increased 56% Over 25-Year Cohort Follow-up
October 29, 2025
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4 min
8 Key Takeaways
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1
Over 50% developed hearing loss in 25 years.
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2
Men (61%) had higher incidence than women (54%).
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3
Mild cases were predominant, with age as a major predictor.
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4
Hypertension linked to faster progression.
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5
Educational attainment showed protective benefits.
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6
Long-term noise exposure increased risk.
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7
Methodology included sound-treated booth and tablet audiometry.
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8
Future research aims for diverse population insights.
In a long-term analysis of the Framingham Offspring Study, over 50% of participants developed hearing loss over 25 years, with incidence rates higher in men (61%) than women (54%). The study highlighted mild cases as predominant, while age, hypertension, and long-term noise exposure were significant risk factors. It also noted that educational attainment may offer protective benefits. Women experienced faster deterioration compared to men, and statistical models were employed to account for variables. Future research aims to explore cardiovascular links to hearing loss mechanisms.
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