Yale researchers are investigating a surprising connection: hearing loss may precede dementia symptoms by 5-10 years and serve as an early warning sign
Led by Dr. Hong-Bo Zhao, professor of otolaryngologic surgery at the Yale School of Medicine, the team is studying how the brain processes sound in mice genetically predisposed to Alzheimer's.
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They're looking for specific changes in gene expression (how genes manage protein construction) and brain activity linked to hearing loss and dementia.
“Our Department is very excited that his work may offer breakthrough understanding of Alzheimer’s, a devastating disease that definitely involves the auditory system.” —Dr. Joseph Santos-Sacchi, a professor of otolaryngologic surgery, cellular and molecular physiology and neuroscience, Yale Daily News
The context:
- Current Alzheimer's detection methods are limited.
- Over 6 million Americans have Alzheimer's today—doubling by 2050.
- One in ten people will have disabling hearing loss by 2050. —World Health Organization
Why it matters
Early Alzheimer's detection allows for earlier treatment, which could dramatically change millions of lives. If successful, this research could lead to:
- Early Alzheimer's detection: Identifying Alzheimer's biomarkers through hearing tests could lead to treating Alzheimer's 10 years before symptoms.
- Improved patient management: Earlier diagnosis allows for better symptom management and potentially slowing dementia's progression.
- Breakthrough understanding: Dr. Zhao's research might also uncover the mechanisms linking hearing loss with cognitive decline.
Reality check
- Distinguishing age-related hearing loss from that linked to Alzheimer's is tricky. Using young mice in the study eliminates this issue.
- This research is still in its early stages. More work is needed to confirm the findings in humans.
The takeaway
This research offers a promising direction for early Alzheimer's detection. Investigating hearing may unlock new tools to combat this disease.
Good news
You can manage your dementia risk now by scheduling a free hearing screening.
Hearing loss is gradual and not benign. Untreated, it increases your risk of social isolation, falling, and dementia.
Check your hearing with a free, 15-minute hearing screening by an audiologist.
Call 708-599-9500 to schedule yours.
► For hearing loss facts and hearing aid options, download The Hearing Loss Guide.
Treat hearing loss to protect your health and happiness.
