Cross-sectional analysis of risk factors for subjective hearing and balance dysfunction in a population-based study

Introduction Variable profiles of hearing loss, dizziness and tinnitus result from dysfunction of the senses of hearing and balance. The present analysis delineated medical findings as well as personal factors and lifestyle habits associated with the occurrence of those symptoms. The data was drawn from the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP) that is conducted at Greifswald University Medical Center since 1997.

Material and methods Individuals were sampled from the general population for the independent cohorts SHIP-START (1997-2001) and SHIP-TREND (2008-2012). Self-reported hearing and balance dysfunction was graded in a structured questionnaire. Lifestyle, cardiovascular and metabolic parameters were assessed by interviews as well as in-depth examinations. Associations were calculated by logistic regression models.

Results Of 8134 individuals aged from 20 to 83 years (mean 50,3±15,8 years), 2350 (28.9%) reported hearing loss, dizziness or tinnitus. They were older, had a lower education, were former smokers more frequently and showed a more unfavorable body mass index as well as waist circumference. Cardiovascular disorders, impaired glucose tolerance, dyslipidemia and hypertension were more frequent. Adjusted analyses affirmed a beneficial effect of more than 10 versus less than 10 years of education (odds ratio 0.55 [95%-confidence intervall 0.46; 0.65]) while a history of smoking (1.30 [1.13; 1.48]) as well as a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus type 2 (1.35 [1.12; 1.64]) or dyslipidemia (1.33 [1.16; 1.53]) were negatively associated.

Conclusion Subjective hearing and balance dysfunction is associated with diverse risk factors. Subsequent investigations should attempt to establish causality as well as underlying mechanisms.

Publication History

Article published online:
19 April 2024