Assessment of Hearing in Patients with Vitamin D Deficiency

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D and calcium are critical for bone metabolism, cochlear health, and hair cell function, and deficiencies in these nutrients have been implicated in auditory dysfunction. However, the combined effects of vitamin D and calcium deficiencies on hearing outcomes remain underexplored, particularly among non-elderly adults. Objective: This study aimed to examine the association between vitamin D and calcium deficiencies and the prevalence, type, and severity of hearing loss, as well as the influence of deficiency duration on auditory outcomes. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 370 adults aged 18–50 years at two tertiary hospitals from September 2023 to February 2024. Participants with biochemically confirmed deficiencies underwent otoscopy, tympanometry, and pure tone audiometry. Hearing loss was categorized by type (conductive, sensorineural, mixed) and severity using Clark’s criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS v25.0 with chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression. Results: Vitamin D and calcium deficiencies were prevalent in 57.3% and 55.1% of participants, respectively. Hearing loss was observed in 63.2% of individuals, with mixed hearing loss (50%) being most common among deficient participants. Prolonged deficiencies (>12 months) significantly increased the risk of severe or profound hearing loss (adjusted OR 2.81, 95% CI: 1.35–5.86). Conclusion: Vitamin D and calcium deficiencies are independently associated with higher prevalence and severity of hearing loss, highlighting the importance of early screening and nutritional intervention to prevent auditory deterioration. Keywords: vitamin D deficiency, calcium deficiency, hearing loss, mixed hearing loss, audiology, cross-sectional study.