Publication:

A descriptive cross‑sectional study of type and severity of hearing loss among diabetic patients in a tertiary care center

Background Hearing impairment affects communication and quality of life globally. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is linked to sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) through microangiopathy and neural degeneration. Despite this, audiological screening is not standard in diabetic care. This study assessed hearing loss type and severity among diabetic patients and explored associations with diabetes duration and glycemic control.

Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over 18 months at a tertiary care ENT center. 100 patients with type 2 DM and audiologically confirmed hearing loss were included. Patients with type 1 diabetes, chronic ear disease, or ototoxic drug history were excluded. Demographics, pure tone audiometry findings, and HbA1c levels were recorded. Statistical analysis using SPSS included the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, chi-square test, and Spearman correlation (p<0.05 significant).

Results The 61-70-year age group was most affected (49%), with a mean age of 67.1±8.7 years; 58% were male. Bilateral hearing loss occurred in 85%. SNHL predominated (81% right, 72% left), mostly moderate severity (42% right, 30% left). No significant associations existed between hearing loss severity and diabetes duration (p=0.752 right, p=0.368 left) or glycemic control (p=0.70 right, p=0.78 left). Tinnitus was recorded in 26%.

Conclusions SNHL was common among diabetic patients, primarily bilateral and moderate. Despite no significant correlations with diabetes duration or glycemic control, its frequent occurrence in this cohort supports routine audiological screening for early detection and enhanced quality of life.