Research Information System
Acta Oto-Laryngologica, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
Background: The studies on malnutrition/obesity and hearing argued that there may be a relationship between malnutrition/obesity and hearing loss, although many used behavioral measurements. Aims/objectives: To investigate Auditory Brainstem Responses (ABR) in women by considering Body Mass Index (BMI). Material and methods: A total of 60 females (n = 120 ears) between the ages of 18–40 years participated. All subjects had normal hearing, and they were grouped under three BMI categories (weak, ideal weight and overweight). ABR recorded with Click and CE-Chirp stimuli at 80–60 dB nHL intensity levels. Absolute latencies and inter- peak latencies of waves I, III and V were evaluated. Right-left ears results and the stimulus type (Click or CE-Chirp) were considered. Results: Mainly, wave V absolute latency and I-V inter-peak latency were longest in subjects who were overweight. No interpretable differences were noted between the ears (p > 0.05). Regarding the stimulus type (Click or CE-Chirp), significant differences were observed in all BMI groups (p < 0.05). Conclusions and significance: The ABR, which are affected by many other factors, are also directly related to BMI. The importance of taking BMI into consideration when creating normative data in ABR measurements and/or using ABR in clinics is emphasized. The stimulus type caused significant differences.