Research Studies

This study plans to learn more about how hypertension (high blood pressure) affects inner ear function by exploring differences in inner ear function in Black and white adults with and without hypertension. Hypertension is a common chronic condition and may be related to hearing loss. You are being asked to be in this research study because you either have hypertension or have normal blood pressure.

If you join the study, you will have your blood pressure measured and undergo a variety of hearing tests including one specific to inner ear health. We will perform a variety of hearing tests. Some tests require you to indicate if you hear tones or words. Other tests require no response. We will study what these tests can tell us about hearing function in individuals who have and do not have high blood pressure.

Main Procedures Involved: Your height, weight, and blood pressure measurements will be taken. A finger stick will also be performed to determine if you have diabetes. You will also answer questions about yourself such as demographics (age, race, etc.), hearing health (history of ear surgery), and difficulty hearing. In total, test time is expected to be up to 2.5 hours in duration and will require 1-2 in-person visits at either the Boulder or Aurora laboratory.