Economic burden due to hearing loss among individuals in Hebei, China.

BACKGROUND

Hearing loss is a common sensory disorder that imposes a significant economic burden on both society and families. However, there is a paucity of research analyzing the economic burden of hearing loss, particularly in-depth regional analyses.

METHODS

This study employed a convenience sampling method and a custom-designed questionnaire. Individuals with hearing loss registered at rehabilitation institutions, schools for the deaf, or deaf associations in Hebei Province were selected as participants. Data relevant to demographics, family income, medical expenditures, the cost of assistive devices, and other relevant information were collected for both children and adults with hearing loss. These data were then analyzed to estimate the lifetime economic burden of hearing loss in Hebei Province.

RESULTS

A total of 1,022 participants (mean age: 23.08 years; 582 males and 440 females) were included in the study. The survey indicated that the average monthly salary of participants with severe or hearing loss was 2,234.96 yuan, with a corresponding average lifetime economic burden estimated at 6,047,500 yuan in Hebei Province. Participants with moderate or milder hearing loss had an average monthly salary of 2,485.63 yuan, and their average lifetime economic burden was estimated at 4,952,400 yuan. The study also identified that 32.4% of the participants were unemployed, and 34.39% of the individuals believed that their hearing loss created obstacles in their romantic relationships. Besides, 56.08% of the participants' spouses also had hearing loss or were deaf/mute, and 25.13% of the participants expressed concerns regarding having children. Among the children with hearing loss included in the study, 18% had a family history of the condition, and 14% of the families had more than two children with hearing loss. In addition, the work of 85.45% of family members was affected by the responsibilities of caring for children with hearing loss, and 98.66% of families reported that the primary challenge in caring for their hearing-impaired children was financial.

CONCLUSIONS

The economic burden associated with hearing loss remains significant in Hebei, China, primarily due to the costs of assistive devices, rehabilitation services, and lost productivity. The findings in this study can inform governmental policy development aimed at reducing the incidence of birth defects that cause hearing loss and reducing the overall economic burden of this condition.