Hearing Loss More Prevalent in Rural Areas and Among Men, Study Finds

Experts call for improved access to screenings and specialists in rural areas, citing exposure to loud noises at work and during leisure activities as potential factors.

Approximately 37.9 million Americans suffer from hearing loss, with higher rates in rural areas and among men.
The study, led by NORC at the University of Chicago, is the first to estimate hearing loss rates at the state and county level.
Experts suggest that the higher rates of hearing loss in rural areas could be due to exposure to loud noises at work and during leisure activities.
Men are more likely to have hearing loss, starting at age 35, with the highest rates among non-Hispanic white people and those aged 65 and older.
Experts call for better access to hearing screenings and specialists in rural areas.