A third of stubborn Brits struggling to hear refuse to go for a check-up as they don't believe it's serious enough to warrant a test.

A headstrong 34% of folk with potential hearing loss haven't taken action, more than one in 10 (13%) admit they're worried and 12% said they feel embarrassed wearing a hearing aid.

To mark World Hearing Day on March 3rd, data released from high street optician and audiology provider Specsavers shows a whopping 181% increase in customers wearing hearing aids compared to a decade ago.

The company estimates that more than 4.5 million people nationwide now use them.

Hearing loss is far more widespread than many realise. As many as 18 million people in Britain struggle to hear properly, with some waiting up to 10 years before seeking support.

Around one in four people in the UK are affected, from children born with hearing difficulties to adults who develop problems later in life.

Some of the top signs of hearing loss are difficulty hearing while speaking on the phone, turning up the TV volume and struggling to keep up with group conversations, especially in noisy environments such as restaurants or bars with background noise.

GP Dr Zoe Williams said it's common to experience changes in hearing over time, but that it doesn't mean it should be ignored.

Dr Zoe said: "Perceptions around hearing aids are often outdated. The technology has evolved dramatically in recent years."Many modern devices are now discreet, small and highly sophisticated.

"Specsavers offers a wide range of options, including the new Specsavers Advance 65 hearing aid with sophisticated AI technology, which has the ability to prioritise speech, filter background noise and enhance sound clarity.

"If you think you or your loved one might be struggling, it's important to seek support early.

"Hearing loss is often thought of as something that mostly affects the elderly, but it's far more common than you think.

"Age-related hearing changes can start manifesting in your early 40s, with many of the symptoms creeping in without realising.

"Hearing checks are often put off but when hearing loss is left untreated, it can affect relationships, confidence and overall wellbeing.

"If you're struggling to follow conversations or feeling more disconnected, booking a hearing test this World Hearing Day could make a real difference to your quality of life.

"The good news is that you don't always need to see your GP first. Hearing care professionals are easily accessible on the high street and can carry out simple checks and talk you through the available options."

If you or your loved one is struggling with your hearing, book a free hearing check at Specsavers.

For more information, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/hearing