Objectives
To investigate the relationship between herpes simplex virus (HSV) and hearing loss using comprehensive population-based research.
Design
This cross-sectional study utilised data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to examine the relationship between HSV (types 1 and 2) and hearing loss. The final sample comprised 4608 participants aged 20–49 years. Weighted multivariate regression, subgroup and sensitivity analyses were employed for statistical evaluations.
Setting
Utilising the NHANES data, this cross-sectional study provides insights into the American population aged 20–49 years.
Participants
The study includes 4608 participants from the NHANES 2011–2012 and 2015–2016 cycles, focusing on those with complete data on HSV infection and hearing assessment.
Interventions (exposure)
The study analyses the association between HSV (types 1 and 2) infection and hearing loss, using weighted multivariate regression for statistical evaluations.
Results
We observed an association between HSV-1 infection and an increased likelihood of hearing impairment (OR, 1.4 (95% CI 1.1 to 1.9)). A similar association was noted for those coinfected with HSV-1 and HSV-2 (OR, 1.6 (95% CI 1.1 to 2.3)). Similarly, higher grades of hearing loss and elevated pure-tone averages were more prevalent in these groups. Notably, the association between HSV-1 and hearing impairment was more pronounced in individuals aged 20–34 (OR, 2.1 (95% CI 1.4 to 3.3); P for interaction=0.020) and those with a body mass index (BMI) below 30 (OR, 1.8 (95% CI 1.1 to 2.8); P for interaction=0.028).
Conclusions
Our findings suggest an association between HSV-1 infection or coinfections with HSV-1 and HSV-2 and the presence of hearing impairment. The association appears particularly pronounced among younger individuals and those with a lower BMI. Further prospective research is needed to explore the causal impact of HSV on auditory function.