Assessing the correlation between hearing sensitivity and Quick Speech-in-Noise test (QuickSIN) performance : the role of extended high-frequency hearing and conventional frequency range hearing

Aim: Speech recognition in noise is consistently challenging for individuals with hearing loss. Even people with normal hearing on a conventional audiogram may experience this difficulty in daily life. In this study, we aimed to explore how hearing thresholds at conventional frequencies (250 to 8000 Hz) and extended high-frequencies (8000 to 16000 Hz) predict Quick Speech-in-noise (QuickSIN) test results. Method: Twenty-eight older adults (mean age = 62.6 years) were recruited in this cross-sectional observational study. Each participant underwent a comprehensive hearing assessment, including pure-tone audiometry at conventional and extended high frequencies, as well as the QuickSIN test. The correlation between pure-tone thresholds at each frequency and total SNR loss was examined using Spearman’s correlation coefficient. Subsequently, the best predictive model for QuickSIN performance was selected through multiple linear regression using the Akaike Information Criterion. Results: Of the conventional frequencies, only 8000 Hz was significantly correlated with total SNR loss (r = .34; p = .011). In contrast, all extended high-frequency thresholds were significantly correlated with total SNR loss. The best model for predicting total SNR loss included the 1500 Hz and 9000 Hz thresholds (r-squared = .37; p < .001). A predictive formula was generated to estimate SNR loss on the QuickSIN test: Predicted SNR loss = −0.23 + 0.06 × thresholds (dB SPL) at 1500 Hz + 0.03 × thresholds (dB SPL) at 9000 Hz. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of extended high-frequency hearing in speech-in-noise ability, in addition to conventional frequencies. The result of this study also supports the potential value of incorporating extended high-frequency information in diagnostic evaluations and hearing interventions, particularly for individuals who experience difficulty hearing in noisy environments.