Portuguese Researchers Develop AI Models for Hearing-Loss Risk

Researchers in Portugal developed AI models under the Audiology for All (A4A) project to explore where hearing loss is more common and how data might support screening decisions. The project is led by Sensing Evolution with Coimbra Health Technology School and engineering researchers at the University of Coimbra.

Nuno Lourenço, a lecturer and researcher at the University of Coimbra, said the team analyzed several existing databases to identify areas with more reported hearing loss and associated factors. He described higher rates near industrial zones and airports and said lower education and income can make hearing aids less affordable. These are project findings and interpretations; the article does not provide validation metrics or prove that living near those locations causes hearing loss.

The team also built data visualizations to show areas where screening might be useful and to help clinicians consider targeted programs. It describes the models as decision support, not a stand-alone diagnosis.

Representative data collection was limited during the COVID-19 pandemic. The team says the database and recommendations improved as the project developed, and Sensing Evolution considered expansion to Spain and the United Kingdom. Lourenço said the same methods might be tested for diabetes and cardiovascular screening, though the algorithms still need refinement and depend on data quality.

Original report: The Hearing Review.