Which of the following conditions is related to an increased risk of hearing loss?

Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of hearing loss due to the potential damage it can cause to the small blood vessels and nerves in the inner ear. Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to microvascular changes, which may compromise the health of auditory structures. In particular, studies have shown that individuals with diabetes often experience changes in their auditory function, including decreased sensitivity to sound and increased difficulty in understanding speech in noisy environments.

Additionally, diabetes often coexists with other conditions like hypertension, which may also contribute to hearing impairment, but the direct mechanisms linking diabetes to hearing loss are more established. As a result, monitoring hearing health is particularly important for those with diabetes, as early intervention can help mitigate some of the auditory complications associated with the condition.