Hearing loss in diabetes

Hearing loss in diabetes is a form of hearing impairment resulting from type 2 diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with various microvascular and macrovascular complications. Microvascular complications include diabetic retinopathy, neuropathy, and nephropathy, while macrovascular complications involve cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, and coronary heart disease. T2DM also affects other systems such as the hepatic and digestive systems, musculoskeletal system, and can impact mental health and cognitive functioning. These complications significantly contribute to the disease's overall burden. The rising prevalence of T2DM is expected to increase the number of individuals experiencing these complications. Additionally, similar pathophysiological mechanisms may lead to damage in the neural system or vasculature of the inner ear, resulting in hearing impairment. Numerous population-based studies have demonstrated a significant association between T2DM and hearing loss, particularly sensorineural hearing loss, which tends to worsen as T2DM progresses.