Hearing Loss Linked to Dementia Risk

Age-related hearing loss, common in individuals over 60, is now understood to potentially elevate the risk of dementia. A recent study from China has uncovered a biological 'bridge' between this hearing loss and cognitive decline, a precursor to dementia. Researchers propose that the functional-structural ratio (FSR), which compares brain activity to structural volume, is key.

This study found that individuals with age-related hearing loss exhibited reduced activity and gray matter volume in brain regions crucial for hearing, speech, and cognition. Consequently, they displayed a lower FSR. This ratio was also found to correlate with poorer hearing and cognitive function, suggesting it could become a biomarker for identifying those at higher risk.

The findings, published in eNeuro, involved comparing participants with and without presbycusis using hearing tests, cognitive assessments, and MRI scans. While acknowledging limitations such as a small sample size, the researchers emphasize that preserving hearing health is vital for maintaining brain integrity. The study's lead author, Ning Li, stated that FSR could eventually help doctors identify individuals most at risk for dementia by analyzing brain scans.