BTS star V has shared a personal health update revealing significant hearing difficulties in one ear for over two years, a condition he is currently receiving medical treatment for.

BTS star V has shared a personal health update revealing significant hearing difficulties in one ear for over two years, a condition he is currently receiving medical treatment for.

BTS star V has shared a personal health update revealing significant hearing difficulties in one ear for over two years, a condition he is currently receiving medical treatment for.

BTS star V has shared a personal health update that has left fans concerned. During a livestream with fellow BTS member Jungkook, V revealed that he has been experiencing hearing difficulties for around two and a half years and is currently receiving medical treatment.

The singer said he can hear only about 30 per cent with one ear and that this was the first time he had spoken publicly about the condition.

For an artist whose career revolves around music, vocals and live performances, the health update highlights an important issue that can affect people of any age: hearing loss.

What is hearing loss?

According to the Mayo Clinic, there are three types of hearing loss:

  • Conductive, which involves the outer or middle ear.
  • Sensorineural, which involves the inner ear.
  • Mixed, which is a mix of the two.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), by 2050, nearly 2.5 billion people are projected to have some degree of hearing loss, and more than 700 million will require hearing rehabilitation. Over 1 billion young adults are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices.

Experts stress the need that once hearing loss is identified, it is essential that it is addressed as early as possible and appropriately, to mitigate any adverse impact.

Can hearing loss be prevented?

Many of the causes of hearing loss can be avoided through proper public health strategies and clinical interventions. According to the WHO, in children, nearly 60 per cent of hearing loss is due to avoidable causes that can be prevented through implementation of public health measures. Likewise, most common causes of hearing loss in adults, such as exposure to loud sounds and ototoxic medicines, are preventable.

Can hearing loss be treated?

Treatment depends entirely on the cause and severity of the hearing loss. Some conditions may be treatable with medicines or procedures, while others may require hearing aids, cochlear implants or other forms of rehabilitation.