Citation

Tan Y, Fang L, Zhu Y, Hashimoto K. J. Psychiatr. Res. 2024; 178: 1-7.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2024, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.07.038

PMID

39096760

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Hearing loss is a prevalent issue resulting from loud noise exposure, aging, diseases, and genetic differences. As individuals age, the likelihood of experiencing hearing loss and depression escalates; yet, the link between hearing loss and the risk of depression remains ambiguous. This study explores the relationship between hearing and depression risk, taking into account sociodemographic and health-related factors.

METHODS: Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2015-2018, a cross-sectional analysis was conducted, focusing on adult participants. It evaluated their hearing status and depression levels using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). The study examined a range of variables, such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, lifestyle choices, and comorbidities, to understand their influence on the link between hearing loss and depression.

RESULTS: Analysis indicated a significant association between moderate to severe hearing loss and an increased risk of depression, notably in older adults. This relationship remained significant even after adjusting for a variety of sociodemographic and health factors. LIMITATIONS: This is a study using the NHANES database using self-reported surveys.

CONCLUSION: The findings of this study emphasize the need to integrate hearing health in the holistic assessment and treatment of depression, particularly advocating for combined care strategies for the elderly.

Language: en

Keywords

Depression; NHANES; Hearing loss; Sociodemographic factors; Mental health assessment