Hearing loss in adults, assessment and management: summary of NICE guidance

### What you need to know Hearing loss is common— Over 9 million people in England123 have hearing loss and this is increasing with the ageing population (fig 1).4 Hearing loss ranks third for disease burden in England (years lived with disability).5 The average GP sees at least four patients every day who have hearing loss sufficient to interfere with their ability to communicate with ease. Fig 1 Estimated prevalence of people with hearing loss in the better hearing ear of ≥25 dB by age band in England4 Hearing loss is disabling— It affects communication at work and home, affecting educational attainment, employment opportunities, personal relationships, enjoyment of music, and social independence. It can lead to significant reduction in people’s quality of life and is associated with mental health problems including depression and dementia. Hearing loss is expensive— The overall economic burden associated with hearing loss in adults in the UK is estimated to be more than £30bn per year.67 Hearing loss can be managed successfully— Early and effective intervention can minimise the …