Short summary

This study investigates the feasibility of systematic hearing loss screening among diabetes patients using automatic User Operated Audiometry. In a cross-sectional design at a diabetes clinic, 200 adults will be screened to assess unrecognized hearing impairment, its association with diabetic complications, and resource use. Findings may support integrating hearing tests into routine diabetes care.

Rationale

Diabetes patients are at a heightened risk for unrecognized hearing loss, likely due to microvascular and metabolic effects. Despite this, hearing screening is not a routine part of diabetes care, leaving many cases undetected and untreated, which may contribute to social isolation, depression, and cognitive decline. This study proposes using automatic User Operated Audiometry to bridge that gap. The system, integrated within the Affinity Suite as IA-AMTAS, delivers automated, self-administered high quality audiometric tests - mirroring expert audiological assessments. The primary aim is to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating systematic hearing loss screening into routine diabetes care by screening 200 adults in a diabetes clinic. The study will assess the prevalence of unrecognized hearing impairment, its correlation with diabetic complications, and the resource implications of implementing such screening.

Description of the cohort

The cohort comprises 200 adult patients diagnosed with diabetes, who attend a dedicated diabetes outpatient clinic. These individuals include both new referrals and follow-up patients, representing the typical outpatient population managed in a tertiary care setting.

Data and biological material

The study will use both clinical and questionnaire data along with biological samples collected during routine diabetes clinic visits. Clinical data include demographic details, medical history, diagnosis, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and results from laboratory tests such as HbA1c, lipid profiles and kidney function tests

Collaborating researchers and departments

Forskningsenhed for Oto Rhino Laryngologi, Odense

• Professor Jesper Hvass Schmidt

Steno Diabetes Center Odense (SDCO)

• Professor Kurt Højlund