FDA’s approval of over-the-counter hearing aids a win; but not its green light for Alzheimer’s drug

Hearing loss contributes greatly to people withdrawing from life. More affordable hearing aids will increase availability for a community in need.

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Editorials

November 16, 2021 - 9:15 AM

(Dreamstime/TNS)

The approval of Aduhelm, an expensive and controversial treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, has been roundly and deservedly criticized, and the manufacturer’s close relationship with the FDA questioned. The approval of the sale of over-the-counter hearing aids, on the other hand, should be applauded by anyone who cares about dementia and cognitive decline.

Friends and family may confuse a person’s loss of hearing with cognitive decline; certainly, difficulty hearing conversation can cause miscommunications, impair social interactions, and contribute to anxiety and…

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