PORTLAND, OREGON — A new study from researchers at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and the VA Portland Health Care System has uncovered a potential link between hearing loss and the development of Parkinson’s disease.
The study, published in JAMA Neurology, examined millions of U.S. veterans’ health records over a 23-year span, suggesting that veterans who experience hearing loss may be at a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s later in life. Moreover, the research hints that veterans who are fitted with hearing aids within two years of their hearing loss diagnosis might reduce this risk.
Background and Purpose
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and often includes symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. While the exact causes of Parkinson’s remain largely unknown, this study aims to explore potential modifiable risk factors — in this case, hearing loss — that could help in its prevention.
“We still have much to learn about how hearing loss contributes to Parkinson’s and how hearing aids might work to lower one’s risk. Considering there are few downsides to getting screened and fitted for a hearing aid, we would encourage everyone to do it.”
–Lee Neilson, M.D., Assistant Professor of Neurology at OHSU, Neurologist at the VA Portland Health Care System
The research team reviewed medical records from nearly 7.3 million U.S. veterans who underwent audiograms between 1999 and 2022. The vast database allowed researchers to explore patterns related to hearing loss and the incidence of Parkinson’s disease over time. The study specifically focused on veterans who had experienced hearing loss and whether the timely use of hearing aids influenced their risk of developing Parkinson’s.
Results indicated that veterans with hearing loss were at a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease later in life. Furthermore, those who experienced more significant levels of hearing loss appeared to be at the highest risk. However, the study also revealed that veterans who were fitted with hearing aids within two years of their hearing loss diagnosis seemed to have a reduced risk of Parkinson’s.
Key Findings
- Veterans with hearing loss were found to have a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease than those without hearing loss.
- Veterans who suffered from more severe hearing loss showed the highest risk of developing Parkinson’s.
- The timely use of hearing aids, specifically within two years of the hearing loss diagnosis, was associated with a reduced risk of Parkinson’s, highlighting the potential protective role of hearing aids.
The study was led by Dr. Neilson and co-authored by Kelly M. Reavis, Ph.D., from the VA’s National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research and the OHSU-Portland State University School of Public Health; Jack Wiedrick, M.S., M.A., from OHSU’s Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Research Design Program; and Gregory D. Scott, M.D., Ph.D., a professor of pathology at OHSU.
Can Hearing Aids Lower Risk for Parkinson’s Disease?
The findings of this study carry significant implications for millions of Americans who experience hearing loss, particularly veterans. While the research does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between hearing loss and Parkinson’s disease, it highlights the potential benefits of addressing hearing issues early. The timely use of hearing aids could play a role in lowering the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s.
This study contributes to growing evidence that early intervention in hearing health is crucial. The researchers call for more studies to explore the mechanisms behind the link between hearing loss and Parkinson’s, emphasizing the need for routine hearing screenings and hearing aid use. Dr. Neilson’s recommendation is especially relevant in today’s landscape, where hearing aids are becoming more accessible to the general public.
While more research is needed to fully understand the connection, this study suggests that early treatment of hearing loss may reduce the risk of Parkinson’s disease. This could lead to a shift in how hearing health is viewed, particularly as a preventive measure against neurological diseases. The study was supported by several prominent grants, including from the Veterans Affairs and the National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research.
Citation:
- Neilson, L., Reavis, K. M., Wiedrick, J., Scott, G. D. (2024). Association of Hearing Loss With Incident Parkinson Disease and the Risk of Parkinson Disease After Hearing Aid Use in US Veterans. JAMA Neurology. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2824569
Source: OHSU, JAMA Neurology
