Part 1. Current Status of Hearing Loss Patients in Korea Using National Data: National Health Insurance Service- Database, 2010 to 2020
10.3342/kjorl-hns.2024.00157
- Author:
Junhun LEE
1
;
Chul Young YOON
;
Jiwon KIM
;
In-Ki JIN
;
Michelle J. SUH
;
Wan-Ho CHO
;
Hyo-Jeong LEE
;
Seong Jun CHOI
;
Dongchul CHA
;
Kyung Ho PARK
;
Soo Hee OH
;
Young Joon SEO
;
Tae Hoon KONG
Author Information
1. Research Institute of Hearing Enhancement, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Publication Type:Invited Special Review by Korean Audiological Society
- From:Korean Journal of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
2025;68(1):7-18
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Background and Objectives:Hearing loss significantly affects communication, psychosocial well-being, and quality of life. This study analyzes the National Health Insurance Service database to assess the trends and characteristics of hearing loss in South Korea from 2010 to 2020.Subjects and Method The database encompasses 97% of the Korean population, providing comprehensive data on medical history, prescriptions, and health examinations. The analysis used the World Health Organization’s ICD-10 definitions to categorize hearing loss types and examine their prevalence and incidence across various demographics over 11 years.
Results:There was an overall annual increase of 4.62% in diagnosed cases of hearing loss, with the most significant rise among the elderly. The rate of increase accelerated from 3.32% between 2010 and 2014 to 6.49% between 2014 and 2020, corresponding with the improved hearing aid access facilitated by policy changes. Women showed a slightly higher increase than men. The data also indicated a consistent rise in abnormal hearing test results during health examinations, especially in older adults.
Conclusion:The study highlights an increasing trend in hearing loss diagnoses, driven by an aging population and enhanced detection facilitated by policy changes. These findings emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and targeted health policies to manage hearing loss effectively, offering valuable insights for global health management and policy development.
