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As Men’s Health Week 2025 arrives, it’s an opportunity to explore a health concern that affects at least 12 million people in the UK, yet often goes unspoken: hearing loss. At K&M Hearing Solutions, we are using this week to raise awareness about the importance of men's hearing health as an essential component of overall wellbeing. It is particularly crucial for men to pay closer attention to any changes in their hearing. For many men, hearing loss is seen as an inevitable part of ageing – something to put up with rather than address. However, this mindset can result in avoidable consequences, including difficulties in communication, strained relationships, social isolation, and even depression. This Men’s Health Week, we’re looking at current statistics, why men have more hearing issues than women and encourage them to take control of their hearing health, seek support early, and understand that they’re not alone.
Statistics on Men’s Hearing Loss in the UKHearing loss affects millions of people across the UK – but when broken down by gender, men are statistically more likely to suffer from it. Lets look at some other statistics:
Why Men Have More Hearing Issues Than WomenThere are several reasons why men are disproportionately affected by hearing problems and many are linked to lifestyle, work, and hobbies. Historically, men are more likely to work in noisy industries such as construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and military services. These environments often involve prolonged exposure to harmful noise levels without adequate ear protection. A statistic from the Health & Safety Executives office states that 17,000 people in the UK suffer deafness, tinnitus or other ear conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise at work. From power tools to motorbikes and from concerts to DIY hobbies, men tend to participate more in activities with high sound exposure. Over time, this leads to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) a permanent and preventable condition. Research shows men are less likely to engage in preventive healthcare, including regular hearing tests. They also tend to underreport symptoms, contributing to a lack of early intervention.
Why Men Wait Up to 10 Years Before Seeking HelpOne of the most troubling parts of men’s hearing health is how long it often takes to go from noticing a problem to actually doing something about it. Hearing loss usually doesn’t hit all at once, it creeps in slowly. You might not even realise how much you're missing until it starts to get in the way of your daily life. By then, the damage might already be done, strained relationships, difficulties at work, and a general dip in your quality of life. Part of the problem is stigma. A lot of men still see hearing aids as a sign of getting old or being vulnerable. Admitting there's an issue can feel uncomfortable, even embarrassing. So instead of getting help, many men come up with workarounds, turning the TV up louder, asking people to repeat themselves, or avoiding noisy places altogether. It’s also worth noting that men are less likely than women to go for routine health checks. According to government data, only 45.3% of men attend NHS Health Checks compared to 54.7% of women. That means fewer chances to catch hearing issues early or even talk to someone about them. Another barrier? Many men simply don’t know where to start. Unlike eye tests or dental appointments, hearing checks aren’t something most of us are routinely invited to. Without clear guidance or public awareness, it’s easy to ignore the problem, sometimes for many years. But this delay doesn’t just affect your ears. Research shows that untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation, loneliness, and even cognitive decline leading to depression. The upside is that once you take that first step, hearing loss is often very manageable and help is out there.
Signs of Hearing Loss in MenHearing loss often develops gradually, making it easy to miss the early warning signs. Men, in particular, may overlook or downplay these changes, attributing them to tiredness or distractions. However, recognising the symptoms early can make a big difference in maintaining communication, relationships, and overall quality of life. Here are some key signs to watch for: Difficulty understanding words, especially in noisy environments Struggling to follow conversations in busy places like restaurants, pubs, or family gatherings is a common early sign. Background noise can make it especially challenging to pick out what someone is saying, leading to frustration or embarrassment. Frequently asking others to repeat themselves If you find yourself often saying "What?" or "Could you say that again?" especially when talking on the phone or in group settings, it could indicate an underlying hearing issue. Turning up the volume Needing to increase the volume on the television, radio, or headphones higher than others prefer is a classic sign. Family members or friends may comment that your devices are too loud. Withdrawing from conversations Hearing loss can make conversations exhausting. You might start to sit back and let others talk, or nod along even when you haven’t fully understood what’s being said. Avoiding social situations If social gatherings feel overwhelming or stressful because you struggle to keep up with the conversation, you may begin to avoid them altogether. This can lead to feelings of isolation and impact your mental health. Noticing the early warning signs can make a huge difference. If you can relate to 1 or more of these hearing loss signs, it’s time to get your hearing checked.
How to Prevent Hearing Loss in Men Men can avoid much of the hearing loss they face, especially from noise, by staying aware and making small changes that lead to lasting benefits. One of the most important actions men can take is protecting their ears in loud environments. Whether it’s on the job, at a music venue, or during DIY projects, using appropriate ear protection can drastically reduce risk. Noise-induced hearing loss develops gradually and is irreversible once it occurs, which is why early prevention is crucial. Routine hearing tests should be part of every man’s healthcare routine, especially after age 40. Getting your hearing checked regularly makes it easier to spot changes early and take appropriate steps. It’s painless, quick, and available through clinics like ours based in Truro Cornwall. Ready to get your hearing checked? Book a hearing test online. Addressing hearing loss doesn’t mean giving up independence or control. In fact, it can restore confidence, improve communication, and prevent future health complications. From hearing aids to lifestyle guidance, modern audiology offers more discreet, effective, and user-friendly solutions than ever.
ConclusionMen’s Health Week is a chance to highlight the issues that don’t always get the attention they deserve and hearing loss is one of them. Millions of men in the UK are living with undiagnosed or untreated hearing problems. Left unaddressed, these issues can seriously impact wellbeing, relationships, and quality of life. But it doesn’t have to be this way. With better awareness, less stigma, and regular hearing checks, men can take back control of their hearing and enjoy the benefits of staying connected to the world around them. If you or someone you care about is experiencing signs of hearing loss, we’re here to help. At our audiology clinic in Cornwall, we offer friendly, expert advice and a range of hearing assessments. This Men’s Health Week, take the first step to better hearing.
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AuthorAll blog content has been medically reviewed and approved by our team of expert audiologists, ensuring you get the most reliable and up-to-date information. Find out more about us here. 
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