A recent medical report has suggested that lead poisoning could have been the cause of Beethoven’s profound deafness, shedding new light on the health struggles of the renowned composer. Medical experts have discovered extreme levels of lead in Beethoven’s hair, indicating a possible link to his hearing impairment.

The New York Times’ medical reporter, Gina Kolata, discussed the findings in a segment on Morning Joe, highlighting the potential impact of lead poisoning on Beethoven’s health. This revelation offers a fresh perspective on the factors that may have contributed to the composer’s deafness.

Beethoven’s deafness has long been a subject of fascination and speculation among scholars and music enthusiasts. This new report provides valuable insights into a possible explanation for his hearing loss, adding a layer of complexity to the understanding of his life and work.