Written by Steve Sandstrom, SIU School of Medicine

• Hearing loss is the third most common health problem in the U.S.
• More than 25 million citizens between the ages of 20 and 69 have high frequency hearing loss due to noise exposure.
• Roughly 50 million people in the U.S. experience chronic tinnitus ─ a persistent ringing in the ears.

Thanks to the efforts of a corps of scientists and auditory professionals, SIU School of Medicine is working to advance the understanding of hearing. These super scientists approach the problem of hearing loss from almost as many paths as sound enters the human brain.

“Fifty years ago, we thought once you lost your hearing, that was it,” says audiologist and researcher Dr. Carol Bauer. “About all you could do was withdraw from social interactions or learn sign language. Now people who are hearing impaired can get cochlear implants and it’s a whole new world. They can hear again and be part of a community and socialize and work.”

SIU’s researchers are even finding ways to reverse noise-induced or medication-induced hearing loss. A new drug patented by Dr. Kathleen Campbell is in the final phase of research trials for FDA approval. For those who work at the business end of a jackhammer, ride a tractor, serve in the military, or attend a loud concert, this therapy will be cause for celebration.

Dr. Bauer has high hopes for the future of those with hearing loss: “I think within 20 years, we should be able to reverse hearing loss and prevent tinnitus. These potential solutions to hearing loss could originate from right here in central Illinois.”

Learn more about SIU School of Medicine’s world-class hearing researchers and their projects here.

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