Author(s)
Isabelle J. Chau, BS
Anuja Shah, BA
Shaun A. Nguyen, MD
Habib G. Rizk, MD, MSc
Ted A. Meyer, MD, PhD
Robert F. Labadie, MD, PhD
Affiliation(s)
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
Abstract:
Educational Objective: At the conclusion of this presentation, the participants should be able to explore the association between suicidality and hearing loss.
Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of suicidality, including suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, in adults with any type of hearing loss compared to adults without hearing loss.
Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
Methods: CINAHL, Cochrane Review, PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO were searched from inception to July 12, 2024. Two investigators independently performed the search according to the PRISMA checklist. Studies that assessed hearing loss and at least one suicidality measure were included for fixed and random effects meta-analyses (proportions, continuous measures, relative risks [RR]).
Results: Of 4,516 abstracts identified, fourteen studies (N = 221,681) pertaining to suicidality and hearing loss in adults were included. Adults with hearing loss reported significantly higher prevalences of suicidal ideation (13.2% vs. 9.3%) and suicide attempts (4.9% vs. 2.4%) compared to controls without hearing loss (p<0.0001). Hearing loss significantly increased the risks of suicidal ideation (RR = 1.47, 95% CI [1.37-1.57]) and suicide attempts (RR = 1.83, 95% CI [1.31-2.55]).
Conclusions: Hearing ability has been shown to have an impact on mental health and quality of life. Adults with hearing loss experience increased risk of suicidal ideation and attempts. Therefore, clinicians should be aware of the significant risk posed by hearing loss, implement screening tools, and refer appropriately.