Hearing Loss and Reduced Income Growth: A Longitudinal Socioeconomic Analysis

Abstract

ObjectiveHearing loss (HL) has been linked to negative socioeconomic states, including low income. This study examines the relationship between HL and income growth.Study DesignLongitudinal observational study.SettingMulticentered US epidemiologic study (Hispanic Community Health Study, HCHS).MethodsUsing data from 2 waves of the HCHS, we analyzed the association between HL and income growth in adults ages 18 to 74 years using generalized estimating equations. The exposure was HL, measured by 4‐frequency pure‐tone average (PTA). The outcome was yearly household income growth, with income graded on a 10‐bracket scale from <$10,000 to >$100,000. Models controlled for demographics, hearing aid use, and vascular risk.ResultsA total of 1342 participants met inclusion criteria. At visit 1, average age was 47.6 years (SD = 12.2), and average PTA was 13.9 decibels (dB, SD = 9.5). Average follow‐up was 5.9 years (SD = 0.6). There was a significant time × HL interaction: with each 10 dB worsening in HL, the odds of belonging to a higher versus a lower income bracket changed by a factor of 0.979 (P < .001) between waves 1 and 2. In other words, the odds of belonging to a higher income group decreased with worsening HL. At 38.6 dB, the odds for income growth became <1, indicating income loss rather than growth.ConclusionIncreased HL is associated with reduced income growth, including the possibility of negative growth (ie, income decline). This study emphasizes the value of including socioeconomic measures in randomized controlled trials assessing the impact of HL treatment and the importance of extended follow‐up for study participants.