Temporal Trends in Hearing Aid Utilization in Korean Adults: A KNHANES-Based Study (2010-2022)

Abstract

Background: Hearing loss (HL) is a prevalent public health issue that affects communication and quality of life. Hearing aids (HAs) are an effective rehabilitation tool, yet adoption rates remain low. To improve accessibility, South Korea revised its HA financial support policy in 2015. This study evaluates changes in HA adoption rates over the past decade and examines the impact of these policy modifications. Methods: This study analyzed data from 9,994 (2020-2022) and 10,019 (2010-2012) individuals aged >= 40 years from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. HL was categorized based on pure-tone average thresholds: mild (26-39 dB HL), unsupported disabling (>= 40 dB HL but not meeting financial aid criteria), lowest-grade hearing disability (>= 40 dB HL in the better ear and >= 80 dB HL in the worse ear), and supported disabling (>= 60 dB HL, eligible for financial aid). HA adoption rates were compared between the survey periods. Results: The overall HA adoption rate among individuals with HL significantly increased from 2.12% (2010-2012) to 4.73% (2020-2022) (P < 0.001). This increase was observed across all HL severities (mild: 0.30% -> 0.64%; unsupported disabling: 4.23% -> 9.42%; lowest-grade hearing disability group: 4.24% -> 16.29%; supported disabling: 23.06% -> 53.52%; all P < 0.001). The highest HA adoption rates were seen in individuals in their 70s, and the supported disabling HL group had adoption rates 5-6 times higher than the unsupported group. Multivariable analysis confirmed a significant association between increased HA adoption and survey period (adjusted odds ratio, 3.70, P < 0.001). Conclusion: HA adoption rates have nearly doubled over the past decade, with the greatest increases observed among financially supported individuals and those in their 70s. Expanding financial support eligibility may further enhance HA adoption, particularly among those with disabling but unsupported HL, ensuring broader access to hearing rehabilitation.