Hearing Loss: an Unknown Diabetes Complication Affecting Millions

The American Diabetes Association EXPO is bringing awareness to the recent link between diabetes and hearing loss.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 36 million Americans have a hearing loss; but not all of them are aware or may be too embarrassed to accept it and get tested. Bob Tysoe, Physician Marketing Manager from Sonus, who educates doctors all over Oregon about hearing loss, has seen firsthand how neglected the connection between diabetes and hearing loss is. In fact, “only 15% of physicians test for hearing loss,” says Tysoe. Tysoe stresses the importance in treating and testing for hearing loss in diabetics and even regular patients. “There is more to gain socially, financially, and professionally by having a hearing loss treated than not treated,” says Tysoe.

Nearly 26 million Americans are living with diabetes, and approximately 313,703 of them are Oregonians. But did you also know that they’re two times more likely to have a hearing loss than someone without diabetes? There is also an estimated 592,000 people with prediabetes, those being people on the border of diabetes, who are 30% at higher risk for a hearing loss than someone without it. The statistics are alarming, and the link apparent. Now join us in making this connection even clearer and come to EXPO.

On Feb. 11, 2012 the American Diabetes Association EXPO (Portland) will take place at the Oregon Convention Center from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., providing free hearing test screenings to bring awareness of the recent connection between diabetes and hearing loss that is affecting millions without them even knowing it. Through our partnership with Sonus hearing professionals, we want to inform all Oregonians about this link that according to the American Diabetes Association has become two of the most widespread health concerns in the United States.

More than 65 exhibitors are participating in this year’s EXPO Portland, which will be held on Feb. 11, 2012 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., at the Oregon Convention Center. Stop by the American Diabetes Association EXPO to get free hearing screenings and learn more about this connection between diabetes and hearing loss. Also, come learn about other local programs and events, advocacy activities and research being conducted in your community.

The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight to stop diabetes and its deadly consequences, and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure, and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. For more information please call the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or visit www.diabetes.org. Information from both these sources is available in English and Spanish.