A breakthrough study from Japanese scientists offers promising genome editing solutions for hereditary hearing loss caused by the GJB2 R75W mutation. Scientists from Juntendo University and The University of Tokyo have made a significant advancement in the treatment of genetic hearing loss linked to the GJB2 R75W mutation. Their study, published in JCI Insight, showcases a groundbreaking adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based genome editing approach, which holds promise for those affected by this form of hereditary hearing loss. The GJB2 gene mutation is known to disrupt auditory function due to its impact on the integrity of gap junction plaques, which are crucial…

A new study suggests that certain foods can significantly lower the risk of developing tinnitus, a condition affecting millions worldwide, highlighting the importance of dietary choices. A recent study published in the journal BMJ Open has revealed a compelling link between diet and the risk of developing tinnitus, a condition affecting approximately 740 million individuals globally. Tinnitus is characterised by the perception of sound such as ringing, buzzing, or whooshing without any external source, and until now, treatment options have been limited, with no known cure. The research involved a comprehensive analysis of data from eight studies, encompassing over 301,000…

Recent advancements in AI are transforming audiology, making early detection of frequency loss more effective, particularly in adults over 65. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence are significantly enhancing the field of audiology, particularly in detecting early frequency loss in human hearing. This development is critical as many adults, especially those over 65, face declining sensitivity to higher frequencies due to factors like age, environmental exposure to noise, and genetic makeup. According to reports from ForexTV, the normal human hearing range spans from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, yet studies indicate that many middle-aged adults begin to experience diminished sensitivity to…

Roel van Gorkum has developed ‘Sus Tinnitus’, an online course combining various therapeutic methods to help those suffering from the condition, following his personal struggle with tinnitus. Roel van Gorkum, a 40-year-old biomedical engineer and former employee at ASML, has developed an innovative online course aimed at providing relief for those suffering from tinnitus, a condition characterised by persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears. Van Gorkum’s trouble with tinnitus began in 2018 following a kitesurfing incident in which a wave hit his ear, leaving him with a ringing that did not subside as it had in the past. “I…

The actress reflects on her health anxieties and the impact of hearing loss amid rising concerns about dementia in an ageing population. Stephanie Beacham, the 78-year-old actress known for her roles in “Strictly Come Dancing” and the American series “Dynasty,” has expressed her deep concern about the possibility of developing Alzheimer’s disease, stemming from her ongoing battle with hearing loss. In a recent interview with the Sunday Times Magazine, Beacham revealed the anxiety she faces regarding her health, drawing parallels to her father’s struggle with the condition. “He was also robbed of his sight and hearing: I couldn’t even hold…

Recent research suggests dietary choices could significantly influence the severity of tinnitus symptoms, highlighting the need for further investigation. Tinnitus, a condition commonly described as a ringing or buzzing in the ears, affects around 14% of adults globally and is often associated with emotional issues like depression and anxiety. Despite its prevalence, there is currently no definitive cure for this disorder. However, recent research from Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine suggests that diet may significantly influence the severity of tinnitus symptoms. The study, published in the peer-reviewed journal BMJ Open, compiles findings from eight observational studies involving over 300,000…

Hearing health is increasingly being recognised as a significant public health issue in the UK, with alarming statistics highlighting the urgency for improved care and accessibility. Hearing health is becoming an increasingly significant concern in the UK, where statistics reveal that one in three individuals experience hearing loss. Alarmingly, those affected commonly wait an average of ten years before seeking treatment, pointing to various barriers preventing access to adequate care. Recent projections suggest that, by 2030, hearing loss is set to become one of the top ten health burdens in the country, surpassing issues such as diabetes and cataracts. The…

The singer-songwriter shares her struggles with hearing impairment and its impact on her music career during a podcast interview. Singer-songwriter KT Tunstall has recently spoken candidly about her ongoing struggle with a serious health issue, specifically her hearing loss, during an episode of the Full Disclosure podcast. The musician, best known for her hit “Suddenly I See,” described her experiences to host James O’Brien, revealing how the condition has deeply impacted her life and career. During the conversation, KT expressed the challenges she faced, likening her situation to feeling “completely underwater.” She revealed that the onset of her hearing issues…

Research links hearing loss to cognitive decline, with cochlear implants showing promise in improving cognitive function among older adults. Hearing loss is increasingly prevalent among older adults, with nearly 60% of individuals aged 60 and over experiencing moderate or greater levels of impairment. This condition has significant implications, particularly as the risk for dementia escalates with advancing age. Dementia disproportionately affects women, especially those aged 90 and above, where they are 1.4 times more likely than men to receive a diagnosis. Recent estimates indicate that as of 2023, around 411,100 Australians are living with dementia—a figure projected to more than…

Cliff Cibelli from Vonage highlights the significant impact of background noise on communication in contact centres, revealing that noise-related issues can cost the industry billions annually. In a recent exploration of the challenges faced by contact centres, Cliff Cibelli at Vonage has provided insights into the complexities posed by background noise during customer service interactions. Despite predictions of a decline in voice communication, recent data indicates that the use of voice channels is actually on the rise, particularly for addressing more complicated customer issues. According to a blog post from Cibelli, 81% of service professionals stated that they prefer to…

Changes in earwax colour can indicate various health issues, from infections to more serious conditions. Audiologist Hannah Samuels discusses what each colour may signify. Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a naturally occurring substance produced by the glands in the ear canal. It typically appears as an amber-orange to light brown colour but can present a range of hues. Observations regarding different earwax colours and their potential health implications have recently come to light, as healthcare professionals encourage vigilance regarding changes in its appearance. Hannah Samuels, an audiologist affiliated with the pharmacy chain Boots, outlined the various colours of earwax…

One in six Australians faces hearing loss, yet many hesitate to seek assistance. This article explores the impact of untreated hearing loss and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding hearing aids. One in six Australians experiences some form of hearing loss, which typically begins to affect most adults from middle age onwards. Despite this prevalence, many individuals are hesitant to seek assistance or undergo hearing assessments. Common concerns centre around the possibility of being prescribed hearing aids, with many envisioning the large, cumbersome devices once associated with older generations. Research indicates that acquired hearing loss can significantly impact various…