Heavy metal biomarkers and their impact on hearing loss risk: a machine learning framework analysis

This study underscores the utility of a machine learning framework in identifying associations between heavy metal biomarkers and hearing loss in a nationally representative sample. While not designed to forecast hearing loss over time, our findings suggest potential clinical relevance for identifying individuals with elevated heavy metal exposure who may warrant further audiometric evaluation. This work lays a foundation for future longitudinal studies to explore these relationships more comprehensively.