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Reduced oestrogen levels post-menopause have been associated with hearing loss and postmenopausal hormone therapy, (HT) with slow hearing decline, but findings from a new study suggest otherwise.
A prospective cohort study, published in Menopause
[1]
(8 May 2017), followed 80,972 women (baseline age: 27–44 years) for 22 years.
Hearing loss was reported in 18,558 cases. For women who underwent natural menopause aged 50 or older, hearing loss risk was 10% higher than for those who were under 50 (multivariable-adjusted relative risk [MVRR] 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03, 1.17). Among postmenopausal women, use of HT over 10+ years was associated with a 21% higher risk of hearing loss compared with no use (MVRR 1.21 95% CI 1.07, 1.37) while use for 5–9.9 years was associated with a 15% increased risk (MVRR 1.15 95% CI 1.06, 1.24).
The researchers conclude that hearing health could be considered by women evaluating the risks and benefits of HT.
References
[1] Curhan SG, Eliassen AH, Eavey RD et al. Menopause and postmenopausal hormone therapy and risk of hearing loss. Menopause: J North Am Menopause Soc 2017:24;9. doi: 10.1097/GME.0000000000000878
