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By Dr. Evans Pemba
June marks Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about health issues that disproportionately affect men.
While conversations often focus on heart disease, prostate cancer, and mental health, one critical aspect of male wellness frequently goes unnoticed: hearing health. The statistics paint a concerning picture that demands attention and action.
Men are significantly more likely to experience hearing loss than women, with studies showing they face nearly twice the risk. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, approximately 18% of men between ages 20-69 have hearing loss in both ears, compared to just 11% of women in the same age group. This disparity becomes even more pronounced with age, as men over 65 are three times more likely than their female counterparts to develop hearing impairment.
The reasons behind this gender gap are multifaceted and often preventable. Occupational hazards play a significant role, as men are more likely to work in industries with high noise exposure, including construction, manufacturing, military service, and transportation. The constant exposure to machinery, power tools, aircraft engines, and heavy equipment takes a cumulative toll on their auditory system over decades of employment.
Recreational activities also contribute to the problem. Men are more prone to engage in loud hobbies such as hunting, motorcycling, attending concerts, and using power equipment for home improvement projects. These activities, while enjoyable, often occur without proper hearing protection, gradually damaging the delicate structures of the inner ear.
The biological differences between men and women may also play a role. Research suggests that estrogen might have protective effects on hearing, potentially explaining why women maintain better hearing health throughout their lives. Additionally, men may be more susceptible to noise-induced hearing damage due to differences in ear anatomy and blood flow patterns.
Perhaps most troubling is the reluctance many men show toward addressing hearing problems. Cultural factors and traditional masculine stereotypes often discourage men from seeking help for what they perceive as signs of weakness or aging. This delay in treatment can have serious consequences, as untreated hearing loss is linked to social isolation, depression, cognitive decline, and increased risk of falls and accidents.
The impact extends beyond the individual. Hearing loss affects relationships, job performance, and overall quality of life. Family members often bear the burden of repeated conversations, raised television volumes, and the frustration that comes with communication barriers. Professional relationships may suffer when important information is missed during meetings or phone calls.
Fortunately, prevention and treatment options are more accessible than ever. The first step is recognition and regular hearing assessments. Men should have baseline hearing tests by age 50, or earlier if they have significant noise exposure. Annual screenings can catch problems early when interventions are most effective.
Prevention strategies include wearing appropriate hearing protection in noisy environments, keeping the volume reasonable when using headphones or earbuds, and taking breaks from loud activities. Modern hearing protection doesn’t mean sacrificing enjoyment—high-quality earplugs and noise-canceling headphones can preserve sound quality while protecting hearing.
For those already experiencing hearing loss, today’s hearing aids are remarkable technological achievements. They’re smaller, more effective, and often virtually invisible. Many connect seamlessly with smartphones and other devices, offering features that enhance rather than hinder daily life.
This Men’s Health Month, let’s break the silence around male hearing health. Encourage the men in your life to prioritize their auditory wellness alongside other health concerns. Regular check-ups, proper protection, and early intervention can preserve one of our most precious senses. After all, staying connected to the sounds of life—from grandchildren’s laughter to meaningful conversations—is an essential part of healthy aging and overall well-being.
If you’re ready to take control of your hearing health, don’t wait any longer. Contact Dr. Pemba at Ocala Hears to schedule a comprehensive hearing evaluation at 352-612-3739. With expert care and cutting-edge technology, Dr. Pemba and the team at Ocala Hears are committed to helping you maintain your connection to the world around you. Your hearing—and your quality of life—are worth the investment.
After graduating from UF, Evans served in the Army and has a special place for the Veterans that gave us all the freedoms we enjoy. When he is not seeing patients, Evans likes to enjoy the Florida outdoors with his wife and two daughters.
Dr. Evans Pemba
Born in Zimbabwe, he comes from a culture where oral tradition is the primary method via which knowledge is handed down from generation to generation. Therefore, he knows how important it is to be a good listener. As such, he promises to always listen more than he talks. That way you and he will chart the best path towards helping you hear better.
Dr. Evans Pemba is the Audiologist and owner of Ocala Hears Audiology. A graduate of the University of Florida (UF), Dr. Pemba is a rabid fan of all things Gators and bleeds orange and blue through and through.
Ocala
(352) 612 – 3739
1630 SE 18th St, Suite 203
Ocala, FL 34471
The Villages/Lady Lake
(352) 612 – 3739
510 County Road 466, Suite 201
Lady Lake, FL 32159
