A new study of 15,000 people in the UK shows that 6 million of us suffer from some form of hearing loss. And 3.4 million don't use a hearing aid - but could benefit greatly from doing so. Untreated hearing impairment can have serious consequences including isolation, withdrawal, problems at work, depression and low self-esteem.
The study - Eurotrak UK - is the most comprehensive survey undertaken in this field. People answered questions not only about their personal hearing, but also about their attitudes to and knowledge about hearing aids.
It also found the UK has the lowest rate of hearing tests in Europe. The message from this must be to get your hearing tested – and these days you can do this over the phone, online and even via an App – says The British Hearing Aid Manufacturers Association (BHAMA) publishers of the report. Other key findings include:-
- UK has the lowest hearing test rate (31% UK, 47% France, 55% Germany)
- 39% of people who consult their doctor about their hearing do not go any further to seek a solution
- 93% of hearing aid owners use them regularly
- 77% (82% of those with recent models supplied since 2007) of hearing aid users are satisfied with their instrument
Professor Adrian Davis, National Director for Newborn Hearing Screening Programme, and the leading epidemiologist of hearing impairment in the UK commented: “Probably over 3.4 million people in the UK need hearing aids and do not have them according to EuroTrak UK – similar to a figure estimated by the MRC studies and RNID.
"This represents a massive challenge to everyone involved with hearing healthcare, hearing aids and their dispensing. The negative impact on the lives of the undiagnosed hearing impaired cannot be underestimated.”
Lawrence Werth, BHAMA Chairman added: “It is imperative that we get our hearing tested regularly. If hearing loss is detected then a hearing aid can help. They have improved dramatically over the last five years – a fact confirmed by EuroTrak UK - and provide real benefits for the hearing impaired.”
Where can you get your hearing tested? You can be referred for an NHS hearing test by your doctor. Alternatively, visit a private hearing aid dispenser (many offer free tests but some may charge), complete a hearing test online (eg: www.hear-it.org, www.rnid.org.uk ) ring the RNID’s Hearing Check phoneline on 0844 800 3838 (calls from a BT landline cost up to 5p per minute. Other providers' charges may vary. Call set up charge may apply) or download the RNID Hearing Check App.
The EuroTrak UK study was conducted in 2010. The sample size was nearly 15,000 strong.
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