Frank R. Lin

Dr. Frank R. Lin, MD, PhD, is the Director of the Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health at Johns Hopkins University and a Professor of Otolaryngology, Medicine, Mental Health, and Epidemiology. An otologic surgeon and epidemiologist, Dr. Lin has significantly contributed to public health research by establishing the link between hearing loss and cognitive decline, which led to the recognition of hearing loss as a major modifiable risk factor for dementia. He initiated the landmark ACHIEVE study, demonstrating that treating hearing loss can reduce cognitive decline by 48% in older adults. Dr. Lin has actively collaborated with federal agencies and Congress to shape policies addressing hearing loss, notably contributing to the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2017. His work emphasizes reshaping the global hearing care market to enhance public health outcomes, and he is dedicated to training future researchers and clinicians in this vital area. Dr. Lin completed his medical education and residency at Johns Hopkins and furthered his training in otologic surgery in Switzerland.