Insufficient Evidence to Support Screening for Hearing Loss in Older Adults

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force reaffirms its 2012 position.

Sponsoring Organization: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)

Background

In 2012, the USPSTF found insufficient evidence to recommend screening for hearing loss in older adults (age, ≥50) who were not aware of any hearing loss (Ann Intern Med 2012; 157:655). In an updated evidence review, the Task Force reevaluated that conclusion.

Key Point

The Task Force found insufficient evidence to assess the balance of benefits and harms in screening for hearing loss in asymptomatic older adults (I statement).

Comment

The incidence of hearing loss increases with age and has increased overall in the past 10 years, with substantial potential to adversely affect independent function, mental health, and qu…

Reviewing Author

Thomas L. Schwenk, MD

Disclosures

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