Accelerating for universal ear health
As per World Hearing Report in 2021, there are more than 1.5 billion people experiencing some decline in their hearing capacity during their life course, of which at least 430 million will require care. WHO South East Asia region contributes the second most number of people with hearing loss with 109.4 M people. Annually, US$ 1.33 per capita additional investment is required into the health system to scale up the identification, treatment, and rehabilitation of ear and hearing problems. Over a 10-year period, this promises a return (or gain) of nearly US$ 16 for every 1 dollar invested.
Hearing loss would have severe impact on the lives and livelihood by adversely affecting language development, psychological well-being, quality of life, educational attainment and economic independence.
Hearing loss could be due to various factors including genetic, intrauterine infection, hypoxia or birth asphyxia, hyperbilirubinemia, low birth weight, perinatal comorbidities, Ottis media, meningitis, chronic diseases, otosclerosis , smoking, age related sensorineural degeneration, non-modifiable risk factors, cerumen impaction, trauma of the head. Hearing loss could occur from genetics, childhood , adults to aging. Therefore, life course approach should be adopted.
Ear and hearing problem extends beyond the health systems and can be achieved through multisectoral collaborative action in line with the principles of integrated people -centred ear and hearing Care ( IPC- EHC). IPC-EHC key interventions are summarized in the acronym H.E.A.R.I.N.G (Hearing screening and intervention; Ear disease prevention and management; Access to technologies; Rehabilitation services; Improved communication; Noise reduction; and Greater community engagement).
