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March 3rd is World Hearing Day—a day led by the World Health Organization (WHO) to highlight the importance of hearing health and encourage early identification and treatment of hearing loss.
This year, we're taking a look at how hearing health is viewed and addressed around the world—and why it matters more than ever.
| | Hearing Loss: A Growing Global and Canadian Health Issue | |
Hearing loss is the 3rd most common chronic health condition worldwide. More than 1.5 billion people globally live with some degree of hearing loss, and this number is expected to rise as populations age and people live longer.
We are no different here in Canada:
- Over 1.6 million Canadians aged 15+ reported a hearing disability in 2022 (about 5.6% of the population)
- 60% of Canadians aged 19-79 have hearing loss, tinnitus, or both
- When measured with hearing tests (not just self-reported), roughly 1 in 5 Canadian adults has hearing loss, and up to 94% of adults aged 70–79 have measurable hearing loss
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Despite these numbers, many people do not recognize or report hearing difficulties, meaning hearing loss is often underdiagnosed and undertreated.
| | The Rising Impact of Noise Around the Globe | | |
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Noise exposure is increasing worldwide due to:
- Urbanization and city living
- Occupational noise in construction, manufacturing, and agriculture
- Recreational noise (concerts, headphones, sporting events)
Noise exposure is one of the most preventable causes of hearing loss. Whether it’s traffic, power tools, concerts, or headphones, everyday sounds can add up over time.
Tips for reducing your risk of noise exposure:
- lower the volume on personal devices
- follow the 60/60 rule (no more than 60% volume for 60 minutes at a time)
- wear hearing protection in loud environments
- take listening breaks
Protecting your hearing today helps preserve your hearing, but also protects your communication, brain health, and quality of life for years to come.
| | Even When Hearing Aids Are Covered, Many People Go Untreated | | |
One surprising global reality is that many people with hearing loss do not use hearing aids—even in countries where they are publicly funded or heavily subsidized.
- Globally, only about 12% of adults with disabling hearing loss use hearing aids.
- Even in high-income countries, only about 25–30% of people with hearing loss use hearing technology, meaning the majority remain untreated.
- In some European countries with strong public coverage programs, treatment rates still range widely. For example, about 55% of people with hearing loss in Denmark, 46% in France, and 45% in the Netherlands report using hearing aids.
- In lower-income regions, treatment rates can be as low as 3–6%, due to limited access, awareness, and stigma
| | The Role of the World Health Organization (WHO) | | |
The WHO is working to make hearing health a global public health priority. Their goals include:
- Raising awareness about hearing loss prevention
- Promoting early screening and treatment
- Encouraging safe listening practices
- Supporting access to hearing healthcare worldwide
World Hearing Day is part of this effort to remind individuals, healthcare providers, and governments that hearing health is essential to healthy aging.
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Hearing care plays a vital role in health and well-being around the world.
On this World Hearing Day, we want to highlight one of the most prevalent health conditions globally. Hearing loss can impact communication, relationships, education, employment, and even brain health.
If you or a loved one have noticed changes in hearing, communication, or listening effort, now is the perfect time to take action.
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Diane Stephenson, Doctor of Audiology
👂 Favourite Sound
A crackling fire
🌳 Favourite Local Spot
Gibbons Park
🧠 Most Rewarding Part of her Work
When patients describe the positive
impact that she has made in their lives
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The information contained herein is provided for general educational purposes.
Regarding specific questions, please talk to your Audiologist.
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