Did you know that globally, men are more likely than women to experience hearing loss? According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), around 430 million people worldwide experience disabling hearing loss—and a greater proportion of these are men. However, this isn’t due to biology, but rather lifestyle and environmental exposures.
At Strauss Audiology, based in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, we understand the unique challenges that men face when it comes to hearing health. Our team provides comprehensive hearing assessments, state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, and personalised treatment plans to help men preserve and improve their hearing.
The Lifestyle Factors Behind Men’s Hearing Loss
While hearing naturally declines with age—particularly past the age of 60—men often experience hearing loss earlier and more significantly than women. The primary reasons are related to noise exposure in both occupational and recreational settings.
1. Workplace Noise Exposure
Many male-dominated professions expose workers to dangerous levels of noise daily. For example:
- Construction: Jackhammers, drills, and other machinery often exceed safe decibel levels.
- Military: Gunfire, explosions, and aircraft engines are common causes of auditory trauma.
- Manufacturing and Logistics: Factories, trucks, and heavy machinery contribute to chronic noise exposure.
- Agriculture: Tractors and farm equipment can be deceptively loud, especially over time.
According to a 2023 study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, men in noisy occupations are 3 times more likely to experience hearing loss before age 65 than men in quieter professions.
2. Loud Recreational Activities
Men are also more likely to engage in hobbies that involve loud sounds, such as:
- Riding motorcycles
- Hunting or going to shooting ranges
- Attending live concerts or sports events
- Using power tools or working in home workshops
In contrast, women are statistically more likely to choose quieter activities like crafts, painting, or reading. While not always the case, these gendered hobbies often contribute to the earlier onset of hearing issues in men.
3. Lack of Hearing Protection
Unfortunately, men are also less likely to use hearing protection like earplugs or earmuffs. A CDC report from 2022 found that only 18% of men who were regularly exposed to loud noise at work used hearing protection consistently.
By skipping this simple precaution, many men unintentionally damage their ears over time—often without realising the severity until it’s too late.
How Strauss Audiology Can Help
At Strauss Audiology, we offer expert care and support for men dealing with or hoping to prevent hearing loss.
Comprehensive Hearing Evaluations
We conduct detailed audiological assessments using the latest diagnostic technology to evaluate your hearing and identify the root causes of any problems.
Hearing Protection Solutions
We offer custom-fitted earplugs and hearing protection tailored to your lifestyle—whether for work, sport, or leisure activities. These are discreet, comfortable, and designed to preserve hearing without interfering with your daily life.
Hearing Aids and Assistive Devices
For men already experiencing hearing loss, our range of advanced hearing aids can make a world of difference. We provide discreet, high-performance devices that enhance speech clarity and reduce background noise, making conversations and work environments more manageable.
Ongoing Support
We don’t just provide hearing aids and send you on your way—we offer continuous care, including fittings, adjustments, counselling, and hearing maintenance plans to help you live life to the fullest.
FAQs: Men and Hearing Loss
Q: Are men more prone to hearing loss than women?
A: Yes, mostly due to higher exposure to noise in workplaces and recreational activities—not biological differences.
Q: Can hearing loss in men be prevented?
A: Absolutely. Using proper hearing protection, limiting exposure to loud sounds, and having regular hearing checks can make a huge difference.
Q: At what age should men start getting their hearing tested?
A: From the age of 40, or earlier if you work in noisy environments or experience symptoms like ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or trouble hearing conversations.
Q: Can lifestyle changes help preserve hearing?
A: Yes. Reducing noise exposure, quitting smoking, and managing chronic illnesses like diabetes can all help protect hearing.
Q: How do I book a test at Strauss Audiology?
A: No referral is needed. Simply contact our practice to schedule a consultation.
Take Charge of Your Hearing Health
Whether you’re a builder, biker, or barista—hearing is one of your most valuable senses, and it’s worth protecting. Don’t wait until hearing loss affects your relationships, job, or quality of life.
Strauss Audiology is here to help you every step of the way with compassionate care, cutting-edge tools, and proven expertise. Based in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, we’re dedicated to helping men across the region hear better, live better, and stay connected to the world around them.
Book your hearing evaluation today and take control of your auditory health.
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