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Growing older is inevitable, but becoming increasingly hard of hearing is not. Our ears, often overlooked in our daily health routines, play a crucial role in not just communication, but in enriching our quality of life. As we navigate the complexities of adulthood, it becomes essential to give our ears…
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Oticon has recently unveiled the Jet PX MiniRITE, heralded as the world’s first essential-level hearing aid to incorporate deep neural network (DNN) technology. This groundbreaking device promises to enrich the listening experience, allowing users to navigate various sound environments with enhanced clarity and ease. By leveraging an advanced form of artificial intelligence, the Jet PX MiniRITE processes sound based on an extensive training set of 12 million real-life sound scenes, thus aiming to deliver accurate sound representation and improved speech intelligibility. The core innovation of the Jet PX rests in its development of AI-driven capabilities specifically designed to support users…
Several music legends are stepping forward to discuss their experiences with tinnitus and hearing loss, aiming to break the stigma surrounding these common yet often overlooked issues. By sharing their personal stories, they hope to encourage others to take proactive steps in protecting their hearing. Pete Townshend, the famed guitarist and songwriter of The Who, has been a vocal advocate for hearing protection, stemming from his own struggles with partial hearing loss and tinnitus. He first detected the condition as a series of “peeps and whistles,” initially mistaking them for birds. Reflecting on his experiences, Townshend joked on “Late Show…
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Health impacts
MoreResearch links hearing loss to cognitive decline, with cochlear implants showing promise in improving cognitive function among older adults. Hearing…
Hearing aids
MoreAs hearing aid technology evolves, major manufacturers like Apple introduce innovative features catering to a growing demographic facing hearing loss.…
Ear Health
MoreCliff Cibelli from Vonage highlights the significant impact of background noise on communication in contact centres, revealing that noise-related issues…
Innovation
MoreThe former Communards member discusses the impact of loud music on his hearing and his positive experiences with hearing aids.…
Latest Articles
A study reveals the evolutionary connection between mammalian outer ears and the gills of ancient fish. A recent study published in Nature by researchers from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California has linked the evolutionary origins of the mammalian outer ear to the gills of ancient fish. The study investigates the relationship between elastic cartilage found in mammalian ears and a similar rare tissue characteristic of fish gills. To establish this connection, scientists employed gene enhancers – specific DNA sequences which are responsible for the regulation of tissue development. In an experimental set-up, when human…
As temperatures plummet, health experts highlight the impact of cold weather on hearing, urging residents to be vigilant for symptoms and take preventive measures. As temperatures drop and winter takes hold, residents in the UK are being informed about the potential health risks associated with cold weather, particularly concerning hearing health. Alison Flaherty, head of medical negligence at Patient Claim Line, has warned that cold weather can significantly impact hearing, leading to temporary loss in some cases. Flaherty emphasized that winter often brings a surge of illnesses, including ear infections, particularly when cold weather weakens the immune system. She noted…
Hearing loss can subtly evolve into a significant impediment; recognising the early signs is vital for maintaining quality of life. Hearing loss is an increasingly prevalent health issue that can subtly evolve from a minor inconvenience into a significant impediment in daily life. It often manifests through difficulties in understanding conversations and missing out on critical sounds. Recognising the early signs of this condition is vital, particularly as one ages or encounters prolonged exposure to loud environments. The initial stages of hearing loss may go unnoticed, but as it advances, individuals often find themselves struggling to hear others during phone…
**London**: Experts are increasingly concerned about rising cases of auditory processing disorder among youth, potentially linked to the heavy use of noise-canceling headphones. They warn of negative impacts on auditory development and the importance of moderation in headphone use to ensure healthy hearing practices. Experts in audiology are expressing rising concerns regarding an increase in cases of auditory processing disorder (APD) among the younger population, potentially linked to the extensive use of noise-canceling headphones. TechSpot has reported that these devices, while popular for their ability to block out ambient noise, may negatively affect hearing. Auditory processing disorder is a condition…
**New York**: Researchers at the University of Rochester, led by Edmund Lalor, study how the brain handles complex audio-visual information in noisy settings. Their findings aim to enhance understanding and technology for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, particularly in light of challenges seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers at the University of Rochester are currently investigating the mechanisms by which the human brain processes complex audio and visual information, particularly in noisy environments where multiple conversations are occurring simultaneously. This groundbreaking study aims to understand how individuals can focus on a specific speaker despite the distractions around…
**United States**: Hearing loss affects 37.5 million adults, with unexpected contributors including dental health, diabetes, and high blood pressure. This article examines various types of hearing loss and emphasizes the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for appropriate treatments when experiencing symptoms of impairment. Hearing loss is a prevalent health concern in the United States, affecting approximately 37.5 million adults. While many people associate hearing loss with aging or exposure to loud noises, these are not the only contributors. A detailed examination has revealed various unexpected factors that can influence hearing ability, suggesting that individuals may need to review and consider…
**California**: Apple has introduced the Apple Health Study, a groundbreaking initiative in collaboration with Brigham and Women’s Hospital, aiming to enhance physical and mental well-being through data from its devices. The study welcomes U.S. residents to contribute and focuses on various health aspects. Apple has launched its most extensive health study to date, designed to explore how its technology can enhance users’ physical and mental well-being. The Apple Health Study, now available through the updated Research app, is a collaborative initiative with Brigham and Women’s Hospital, which is affiliated with Harvard Medical School. This announcement was made by Apple on…
Hearing specialists caution that everyday ear-cleaning practices, particularly the use of cotton buds, can lead to serious complications and long-term health issues. Experts in hearing health have highlighted the potential dangers associated with everyday ear-cleaning practices, specifically the use of cotton buds. This common activity can lead to serious complications, such as damage to the eardrum, according to recent insights shared by hearing specialists. Specialists warn that the small size of cotton buds allows users to push earwax deeper into the ear canal, creating pressure on the eardrum. Furthermore, the stick can easily cause physical damage to this sensitive structure.…
**Italy**: The launch of Nuance Audio glasses by EssilorLuxottica marks a milestone in hearing aid technology, allowing users to enjoy stylish eyewear that functions as effective hearing aids without a prescription. The glasses integrate advanced audio features reminiscent of Italian cinema’s comedic take on hearing difficulties. The Italian media is celebrating a significant advancement in hearing aid technology with the upcoming release of “Nuance Audio” glasses developed by EssilorLuxottica. These innovative spectacles will serve as hearing aids and will soon be available for purchase in Italy without the need for a medical prescription. Following their launch in Italy, the company…
Tinnitus, a symptom of various health issues, affects a significant portion of the population and requires timely medical attention, according to expert Alexander Gershevsky. Tinnitus, commonly understood as a condition characterised by a ringing, buzzing, hissing, or humming sound in the ears, has been highlighted as a significant health issue by Alexander Gershevsky, a specialist in otolaryngology from the European Medical Centre (EMC). In a recent discussion with Izvestiya, Gershevsky noted that tinnitus is not a standalone disease, but rather a symptom indicating various health disruptions. Research suggests that tinnitus affects approximately 10–15% of the population, and for some individuals,…
**London**: Xilica has launched RoomHub, an advanced audio processor that automates setup in medium to large meeting spaces. Featuring AI-driven technologies and machine learning, it enhances audio performance while simplifying installation, monitoring, and integration for improved collaboration and user experience. Xilica has unveiled its latest innovation, RoomHub, designed specifically for medium and large meeting rooms, divisible spaces, and classrooms. This advanced audio processor stands out due to its integrated intelligence that automatically identifies and configures system components, which include microphones and cameras, streamlining the setup process for users. A significant feature of RoomHub is its AI AutoDeploy technology, which examines…
**Europe**: A recent study evaluates the TICI cochlear implant at hospitals in Belgium and Germany, focusing on participant safety, speech perception assessments, and patient satisfaction which could transform hearing restoration methodologies for those with severe hearing loss. A recent study published by Nature.com has shed light on advanced methodologies in hearing restoration, particularly focusing on cochlear implantation techniques. This clinical trial assessed the feasibility of a cutting-edge cochlear implant, the TICI, at two prominent medical centres: the University Hospital Center of Liège in Belgium and the University Hospital of Munich in Germany. The research emphasised stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria…