A new map shows unexpected patterns in hearing loss across the US, highlighting the impact of geography, jobs, and age.
Researchers at the National Opinion Research Center (NORC) of the University of Chicago, with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, estimated rates of national, state, and county hearing loss using audiology data from a national health survey.
- Result: nearly 38 million Americans—more than one in nine—suffer from bilateral hearing loss.
Why it matters
This study sheds light on factors beyond aging, providing us with information for controlling and protecting our hearing health.
“The number one risk factor for hearing loss is aging, but the map tells us that where you live impacts your hearing as well. Surprisingly, people living in urban areas with large populations and traffic noise have less hearing loss prevalence than people in rural areas.” —David Rein, Ph.D., NORC
What to know
The big picture:
- State of the map: West Virginia, Alaska, Wyoming, Oklahoma, and Arizona top the charts for hearing loss, while DC, NJ, NY, MD, and CT come in lowest.
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Age matters: Hearing loss kicks in around 35 and worsens steadily, affecting 1 in 7 people over 35 and 1 in 1.4 individuals over 75.
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Beyond age: Men, non-Hispanic Whites, and rural residents face higher risks, suggesting environmental and occupational factors play a driving role.
Jobs and noise exposure:
- Retail and restaurants: These professions, not just mining, show a link to hearing loss. Consider ear protection if your work involves constant background noise.
- Rural risks: Outdoor work with machinery, recreational activities like ATVs and firearms, and living near traffic (cars, trucks, and trains) contribute to noise exposure in rural areas.
Behind the story
NORC is a nonpartisan research organization and a pioneer in measuring and understanding the world, having studied almost every aspect of the human experience and every major news event for more than eight decades.
- Check out the SoundCheckMap.org, a result of NORC's research. It is a masterpiece of presenting complex information in an interactive, easy-to-understand way.
- Your thought starter: Are you surprised by the link between geography, jobs, and hearing loss? What steps can you take to protect your hearing health?
Easily home in on your interests.
The takeaway
- Protect your ears: Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable. Use earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments.
- Don't wait to get checked: Regular hearing screenings, especially after age 35, will identify problems early (when treatments are most effective).
- Hearing aids aren't scary: Hearing aids and other treatments can dramatically improve your quality of life by helping you reconnect with the world around you.
1 big idea
Hearing loss is a national concern, but it's not inevitable. By understanding the risks and taking action, you can safeguard your hearing and enjoy a life filled with clear communication and social connection.
“What the public needs to know is that hearing is as important to your health as clear vision. Getting glasses is not a big deal, but neither is getting hearing aids or wearing hearing protection when it’s needed.” —Donna Smiley, Ph.D., CCC-A, chief staff officer for Audiology at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Schedule a free hearing screening
Hearing loss is gradual and not benign. Untreated, it increases your risk of social isolation, falling, and dementia.
Check yours with a free, 15-minute hearing screening by an audiologist.
Call 708-599-9500 to schedule yours.
► For facts about hearing loss and hearing aid options, download The Hearing Loss Guide.
Don't let untreated hearing loss threaten your health and happiness.
