The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that by 2050, nearly 2.5 billion people are expected to experience some form of hearing loss, with over 700 million needing hearing rehabilitation.
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Disabling hearing loss is defined as a hearing loss greater than 35 decibels (dB) in the better hearing ear.
In its statement marking World Hearing Day, themed “Changing mindsets: empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all!”, WHO highlights that over 5% of the global population, or approximately 430 million people, need rehabilitation due to disabling hearing loss, including 34 million children.
The organization also notes that the global cost of untreated hearing loss is nearly US$ 1 trillion annually.
The WHO further emphasizes that a minimal investment of less than US$ 1.40 per person each year is required to expand ear and hearing care services worldwide, which could yield a return of nearly US$ 16 for every US dollar invested over a 10-year period.
The WHO reports that almost 80% of those with disabling hearing loss live in low- and middle-income countries, with the condition becoming more prevalent among those over 60 years old.
According to the WHO, hearing loss is defined as having hearing thresholds of more than 20 dB in both ears, which is lower than what is considered normal hearing.
Hearing loss can vary in severity from mild to profound and may affect one or both ears, making it difficult to hear conversations or loud sounds.
Causes of hearing loss include impacted earwax, head or ear trauma, exposure to loud sounds, ototoxic drugs, occupational chemicals, nutritional deficiencies, viral infections, and genetic factors that cause progressive or delayed hearing loss.
Hearing loss can be prevented through measures such as immunization, proper maternal and childcare practices, genetic counseling, early identification and treatment of common ear conditions, workplace programs to protect hearing from noise and chemicals, and safe listening habits to limit exposure to loud sounds in recreational environments.
The WHO encourages member states, partners, and stakeholders to organize community awareness events and ensure that ear and hearing care are accessible to all.
World Hearing Day, celebrated on March 3 each year, emphasizes the importance of ear care for overall health and well-being.
As hearing is essential for communication and engagement with the environment, raising awareness about its preservation is vital.
The WHO calls for increased public awareness of the importance of ear and hearing care as part of general health, as well as efforts to reduce stigma surrounding hearing loss.
The organization also urges individuals of all ages to take proactive steps, including regular hearing check-ups, using hearing protection, and utilizing hearing technology when recommended.
