* Speech-frequency hearing loss in both ears (bilateral). The figure shows the percent of the U.S. population aged 20 to 69 with speech-frequency hearing loss in both ears.
Hearing loss is defined as when the average threshold across four speech frequencies (0.5–1–2–4 kHz) is greater than 25 decibels hearing level. A loss of 25 decibels in the speech frequency range is equal to very soft speech in a quiet room.
Source: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2011-2012. Analysis reported in JAMA Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, December 2016.
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