According to the 2019 Global Dementia Report by the International Dementia Association, over 50 million people worldwide suffer from dementia. This number is projected to reach 152 million by 2050. Currently, dementia incurs annual costs exceeding $1 trillion, a figure expected to double by 2030. In Taiwan alone, there are 350,000 dementia patients, with annual medical expenses totaling NT$185.5 billion, accounting for 8.9% of total healthcare expenditures. To raise awareness about dementia prevention, the International Dementia Association designated September 21 each year as World Alzheimer’s Day.
Hearing loss is often one of the main factors contributing to social isolation. (Image/Provided by Heho Health)
The Global Action Plan on the Public Health Response to Dementia 2017–2025, issued by the World Health Organization (WHO), outlines seven action areas, including dementia awareness, risk reduction, diagnosis, treatment, care, and caregiver support. The plan encourages nations to implement targeted policies to actively prevent and reduce dementia risk. Among these, "hearing loss" is identified as a primary risk factor. Research demonstrates a strong correlation between hearing loss and an increased risk of dementia.
Clinical studies have revealed that individuals with hearing impairment face a dementia risk five times higher than those with normal hearing. Uncorrected hearing loss accelerates brain atrophy and pathological changes. However, wearing hearing aids can reduce cognitive decline by up to 48%. Despite this, hearing screening is not yet included in Taiwan's regular health check-ups, and public awareness of the connection between hearing loss and dementia remains limited.
Dr. Tun-Hsin Lo, Vice Chairman of the Taiwan Audiology and Speech-Language Association, Prof. Tien-Chen Liu from the ENT Department of National Taiwan University Hospital, Dr. Frank Lin, MD, PhD from Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Chien-Liang Liu, Director of the Dementia Center at Taipei City Hospital, and Dr. Li-Hong Zhang, Associate Professor at the Institute of Neuroscience, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University. (Image/Provided by Heho Health)
Experts recommend incorporating regular hearing tests into dementia prevention policies, promoting the use of hearing aids, and focusing on early identification and treatment of high-risk factors. These measures can effectively reduce the medical and societal costs associated with dementia, contributing to a more comprehensive approach to dementia prevention.
This article is authorized by Heho Health for use.
