TAMPA, Fla.(BLOOM) – Tampa may be known for its sunny skies and sandy beaches, but there’s a darker side to life in paradise – the city recently ranked third in the nation for hearing loss prevalence, according to a new study. And while it might be easy to point fingers at Florida’s noisy nightlife or outdoor lifestyles, the problem runs much deeper.
A new study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Americas revealed that the prevalence of bilateral hearing loss – hearing loss in both ears – is disproportionately higher in places like Tampa, alongside other cities like Tucson and Pittsburgh. The Sound Check Map study, conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago and funded by the CDC, aimed to map out hearing loss across the U.S., and the results are startling.
“We have so many people retiring in Tampa and the surrounding communities that it isn’t surprising we are at #3,” said Carey Bowen, a hearing instrument specialist at Everybody Hears in Inverness. “Occupations like pilots or dental workers, where people are exposed to long-term noise, often lead to hearing loss. And hobbies like attending loud concerts or shooting recreationally can be even more damaging.”
Bowen’s insight points to a unique confluence of factors that make Tampa particularly vulnerable. Many of the residents are retirees who may have spent decades in noisy work environments, not to mention the city’s active music scene and love for outdoor sports like shooting and boating – both notorious for their decibel levels.
Why Hearing Loss is More Than Just a “What?” Moment
Hearing loss doesn’t just lead to the occasional “What did you say?” moment. Untreated hearing impairment has serious consequences for quality of life, especially as we age. According to the Sound Check study, hearing loss becomes more prevalent starting at age 35 and skyrockets by age 75, with one in 1.4 seniors over 75 affected.
“Hearing loss is more than just an annoyance,” Bowen explains. “It affects speech comprehension, mental health, and even balance. We see people delay getting help, sometimes for as long as seven years after noticing the first signs, and that delay can drastically reduce their quality of life.”
This delay can also lead to social isolation, as the difficulty of engaging in conversations becomes too overwhelming. The impact is felt not just by the individual but by their families as well. Bowen shared that families often shoulder the financial burden when hearing loss goes untreated, citing increased medical costs and strain from trying to communicate.
Unique Risk Factors for Tampa Bay Residents
In Tampa, risk factors go beyond the usual suspects of aging and noise exposure. Even everyday tasks like driving with the windows down or walking through busy intersections can have a cumulative effect on hearing health.
“Traffic is loud, and if you’re a truck driver or delivery worker, you’re exposed to it all day long. And it’s not just the honking horns – wind noise from having your windows down can contribute too,” Bowen said. “People don’t realize how much these everyday sounds can add up.”
On top of that, those who love Tampa’s bustling social scene aren’t doing their ears any favors. “Music at bars and restaurants is often too loud. Sure, it’s fine for a short time, but over hours and hours? That’s where the damage happens,” Bowen noted.
Preventive Measures
The good news is that hearing loss is preventable, and for Tampa Bay residents, it’s all about being proactive. “Hearing protection is crucial – whether you’re working in a noisy environment, going to a concert, or even mowing the lawn,” Bowen advised. “And if you’re already experiencing warning signs like ringing in the ears (tinnitus), it’s important to get checked as soon as possible.”
While many might be tempted to try over-the-counter hearing aids, Bowen warns that some of these cheap devices can do more harm than good. “A lot of people get burned by low-quality systems that don’t work properly,” he said. “It’s always better to ask a professional and get a proper test – which, by the way, is often free.”
Health Campaigns and Tests
Bowen stresses that annual hearing tests should be as common as routine eye exams. Unfortunately, many healthcare providers don’t prioritize hearing health. “We need more doctors to be proactive about recommending hearing tests, especially for older adults,” Bowen said. “It’s frustrating because so much of this is preventable, but there just isn’t enough education out there.”
As Tampa grapples with its ranking, there’s hope that increased awareness and education will help residents protect their hearing. After all, the city’s sunny days and fun-filled nights are a lot more enjoyable when you can actually hear what’s going on around you.
Side Note:
Of course, if you’re already struggling to hear the waves crash on Tampa’s shores, it might be time to lower the volume on the Jimmy Buffett playlist. Margaritaville can wait – your hearing can’t.
Tampa’s third-place ranking in hearing loss is a wake-up call for residents to take their hearing health seriously. With proper preventive measures and public awareness, it’s possible to keep the city’s soundscape enjoyable – without turning up the volume on the risk.