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Audiology

Bar chart titled “Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia” showing the estimated percentage of dementia cases attributable to different risk factors by age group. Under age 45, inadequate education accounts for 7.1%. From ages 45–65, hearing loss is the largest risk factor at 8.2%, followed by traumatic brain injury (3.4%), high blood pressure (1.9%), heavy alcohol consumption (0.8%), and obesity (0.7%). Over age 65, smoking (5.2%), depression (3.9%), social isolation (3.5%), air pollution (2.3%), lack of physical activity (1.6%), and diabetes (1.1%) are shown. Hearing loss is highlighted as the single largest modifiable risk factor overall.
Hearing Loss is the Number One Modifiable Risk Factor for Dementia

Hearing loss is increasingly recognized as the leading modifiable risk factor for dementia, yet many people remain unaware of the profound connection between hearing health and cognitive decline. This article explores the emerging evidence behind that link, revealing how untreated hearing loss may affect the aging brain—and why timely intervention could play a crucial role in preserving both communication and cognitive function.