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Last Updated:May 22, 2025, 17:33 IST
While ageing remains a leading cause of hearing loss, lifestyle habits like prolonged exposure to loud music, traffic, and urban noise are significantly affecting the youth
WHO report highlights that over 160 crore people worldwide currently live with some degree of hearing loss, out of which around 4.3 crore need active rehabilitation. (News18 Hindi)
According to a recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly a quarter of the global population may suffer from hearing problems in the next 25 years.
The report highlights that over 160 crore people worldwide currently live with some degree of hearing loss, out of which around 4.3 crore need active rehabilitation. This number is steadily increasing and is expected to cross 250 crore by the year 2050.
While ageing remains a leading cause of hearing loss, lifestyle habits like prolonged exposure to loud music, traffic, and urban noise are significantly affecting the youth. Scientifically, this condition is known as Presbycusis or age-related hearing loss, but experts believe early prevention is possible.
Loud Sounds And Urban Noise Becoming A Threat
Noise pollution from traffic, construction, and high-volume headphone use is silently damaging our ears. WHO warns that more than 100 crore young people are at risk of permanent hearing damage due to daily exposure to unsafe sound levels. As a result, hearing loss is no longer restricted to the elderly, young adults and even children are increasingly being affected.
Often, gradual hearing decline goes unnoticed. People may begin to ask others to repeat themselves frequently or may struggle to hear clearly in noisy surroundings. This is often misinterpreted as a normal part of ageing, which delays timely treatment. But experts stress that any decline in hearing at any age should be taken seriously and addressed immediately.
60% of Hearing Loss Cases Can Be Prevented
WHO believes hearing loss can be prevented in at least 60 percent of cases through awareness and early measures. These include safe listening habits, timely vaccinations, avoiding ear-damaging (ototoxic) medicines, treating ear infections, and providing proper care to mothers and children.
WHO recommends annual ear check-ups for people above the age of 45. Even in the absence of visible symptoms, hearing loss may be progressing. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can help prevent permanent damage.
Early Prevention Should Begin In Childhood
Health experts recommend that hearing protection should begin in early childhood. Vaccinations should be given on time to prevent ear infections. If there’s a family history of ear-related issues, early monitoring is essential. Certain medications can damage hearing and should be used cautiously.
Children and teenagers should be encouraged to listen to music at low volumes and limit the use of headphones. Prompt treatment should be sought for common ear ailments. Protecting hearing ability requires prevention and care at every stage of life. According to WHO, nearly 60% of hearing loss cases are preventable if detected and managed in time.
Location :United States of America (USA)
First Published:News world WHO Warning: 2.5 Billion People At Risk Of Hearing Loss By 2050
