This book systematically discusses the pathogenesis, prevention, and the
current and potential clinical treatment of hearing loss, as well as the
latest advances in hearing research. Hearing loss is a prevalent sensory
disorder, which according to a 2015 World Health Organization (WHO)
report affected 9% of the global population in 2015. As populations
continue to age, more and more people are suffering from the condition,
with 60% of those aged between 65 and 75 affected. Hearing loss
seriously affects patients' ability to work ability and quality of life,
and as such deafness has become an increasingly urgent social problem
around the globe. Sensorineural hearing loss is mainly caused by damage
to the hair cells (HCs), and the subsequent loss of spiral ganglion
neurons (SGNs). Damage to the HCs in the inner ear can result from
exposure to loud noises and environmental and chemical toxins as well as
genetic disorders, aging, and certain medications. This book provides
ENT specialists and researchers, as well as individuals affected a
comprehensive introduction to the field of hearing loss.