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During 1960 to 1962, a study of adults between 18 and 79 years of age (civilian noninstitutionalized population of the United States) indicated that on the basis of audiometric tests, 47% had "better than normal hearing"; 46% had "normal hearing"; and 7% had some hearing impairment. On the basis of history, "hearing trouble" was reported among an estimated 50% of adults; in 6% this was considered serious.