A high-profile study has suggested that those who suffer with tonsillitis, ear infections or multiple episodes of bronchitis as a child could be susceptible to hearing loss later in life.
The Newcastle Thousand Families Study monitored 1,142 babies born in Newcastle from 1947 to the present day, measuring factors such as their overall health, growth and development.
It found that one in four participants, now in their 60s, have had their hearing tested and were more likely to suffer hearing loss if they contracted the infections as a child.
Dr Mark Pearce, who led the study undertaken at the Institute of Health and Society at Newcastle University, said: “Our findings show that those who suffered from infections as a child were more likely to have a hearing loss in their 60s.
“Reducing childhood infection rates may help prevent hearing loss later in life.
“This study shows the importance of the Newcastle birth cohorts, with the study initially focusing on childhood infections.
“The study is nearly 70 years old and continues to make a major contribution to understanding health conditions, which is only possible through the continued contribution of cohort members.”
Dr Ralph Holme, Head of Biomedical Research at Action on Hearing Loss, said: “Hearing loss affects as many as one in six people across the UK and is often seen as just another sign of getting old.
“However, the study shows that this is not necessarily the case; illnesses in childhood could have long-lasting consequences for hearing in later life.
“Hearing loss can have a big impact on a person’s life, isolating them from family and friends, and has been linked to other health conditions like depression and dementia.
“These findings remind us that it’s never too early to think about protecting your hearing.”
If you have suffered hearing loss and think it may be as a result of inadequate protection in the workplace, we may be able to help you. Visit our dedicated website – www.ringingin-ears.co.uk – for more information or call 0800 028 2060 to speak to a member of our team.