Part 2. 전국 데이터를 이용한 우리나라 청각장애 및 보장구 현황: NHIS-데이터베이스, 2010 to 2020

Abstract

Background and Objectives This study aims to analyze trends in hearing disability and the use of hearing rehabilitation devices (hearing aids and cochlear implants) in South Korea over the past 11 years (2010-2020) using data from the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS). Subjects and Method Data were extracted from the NHIS database, covering approxi- mately 97% of the South Korean population. Patients diagnosed with hearing loss were classi- fied using ICD-10 codes. The data were analyzed to determine trends in hearing disability, hearing aid prescriptions, and cochlear implant usage by age, gender, and types and causes of hearing loss. Results The number of hearing disability patients increased from 170900 in 2010 to 362738 in 2020, with an annual growth rate of 7.95%. The highest increase was observed in the ≥60 age group, with an annual growth rate of 11.04%. Hearing aid prescriptions rose from 4966 in 2010 to 11974 in 2020, showing a 10.45% annual increase. Females showed a higher growth rate in both hearing disability and hearing aid prescriptions compared to males. Cochlear im- plant prescriptions also increased, particularly among older adults. Conclusion The study highlights a significant rise in hearing disability and the use of hear- ing aids and cochlear implants in South Korea, especially among the elderly. The findings un- derscore the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for hearing loss and the need for policy improvements to enhance accessibility and affordability of hearing rehabilitation ser- vices. Additional strategies are needed to ensure appropriate hearing rehabilitation for those not yet receiving adequate care.