Risk For Hearing Loss Significantly Higher For Those With Type 2 Diabetes

The risk of hearing loss for individuals with type 2 diabetes is 4.19 times higher than those without diabetes, according to recent research. Levels of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)—average blood glucose (sugar) levels over a period—appear to be correlated with the severity of hearing loss, the researchers wrote. The duration of diabetes also appears to be a significant factor in hearing loss.

The study drew data from 17 articles about the association between diabetes and hearing loss. Inclusion criteria for articles included a clear definition of hearing impairment measured by audiometric testing and diagnosed diabetes using either medical . . .