Free hearing tests launched for those 60 and over

Free hearing tests have been launched in five subdistricts of the Pudong New Area this week for the early detection and treatment of elderly people aged over 60. It is the first such screening program in the nation.

There are 200 million people with hearing disabilities in China, with more than 45 percent of the country's population aged 60 and over suffering to varying degrees. The percentage reaches 83 among people over 70, medical experts said.

Hearing loss can impose serious influence on health and the life quality of citizens, resulting in a drop in communication ability and daily life interaction — it can even increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

“Hearing loss is a public health problem requiring more awareness across all of society," Dr Duan Jirong from Punan Hospital said. “The incidence of Alzheimer’s disease among elderly with light, middle and serious hearing loss is two times, three time and five times that of those with ordinary hearing.”

Early and regular hearing tests can prevent the deterioration of hearing loss and prevent Alzheimer’s disease and the other problems related with hearing loss, he added.