Chester University research finds veterans face higher hearing loss risk
New research led by the University of Chester has found that UK Armed Forces veterans are more than twice as likely to experience hearing loss as non-veterans.
The study, published by the Royal British Legion (RBL), shows veterans are 2.33 times more likely to experience hearing loss and 1.6 times more likely to suffer from tinnitus.
It follows the first large-scale independent research study into hearing loss among working-age UK veterans, carried out by the University’s Westminster Centre for Research in Veterans.
The centre received funding in 2023 to explore the impact of hearing loss linked to military service, assess whether existing support meets veterans’ needs, and recommend improvements to policy and practice.
A total of 658 veterans were surveyed, with several taking part in follow-up interviews about their exposure to noise and use of hearing protection.
Researchers found no link between not wearing hearing protection and hearing loss, though many veterans said protective equipment was often incompatible with operational duties.
The study also found an association between hearing loss and symptoms of anxiety or depression.
The RBL report recommends strengthening support for Armed Forces personnel affected by hearing impairment and tinnitus, including improving access to compensation and hearing aids.
Professor Basma Ellahi, Associate Dean for Research and Innovation at the University’s Faculty of Health, Medicine and Society, said:
“This strategic and innovative research has focused on a fundamental issue of relevance to our veteran community. The findings should inform future directions for practice and policy to better support veterans and their support networks.
“We are grateful not only to the veterans who participated, but also recognise the wider academic community and other stakeholders who were instrumental in shaping the research direction and ensuring evidence-based recommendations.”
Angela Kitching, Director of Campaigns, Policy and Research (jobshare) at the Royal British Legion, said:
“The Royal British Legion has long recognised the challenges Service-related hearing impairment presents for veterans and their families.
“We welcome this research, which fills an important evidence gap on hearing loss and tinnitus in working-age veterans. This evidence will help inform policy and practice, ensuring support better reflects the needs of those affected.”
Army veteran Dan Darkes, 37, from Northampton, was medically discharged from the Army at 23 after a rocket-propelled grenade blast in Afghanistan ruptured his eardrum. He lost his hearing for three weeks and struggled to adapt to civilian life after discharge.
He later received support from the Royal British Legion, who helped him access mental health services, hearing aids, and improved compensation.
Dan said: “I had no one to go to. I hear a loud thumping noise in my left ear and at night when it’s quiet, the ringing gets louder. It can be hard to sleep. It gets you down and I did struggle with my mental health.”
The full RBL report is available at: britishlegion.org.uk/hearing-impairment-impact-on-working-age-uk-veterans
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