Almost 2.5 billion people in the world, or one in four people, will suffer from hearing problems in 2050, according to a WHO report published on Tuesday March 2, which underlines “
the need to rapidly step up the prevention and treatment of hearing loss
».
«
At least 700 million of these people will need access to ear and hearing care and other rehabilitation services
“, Warns the World Health Organization in a press release. “
In children, nearly 60% of hearing loss can be prevented with rubella and meningitis vaccination, improved maternal and newborn care, or early detection and management of otitis media
», Indicates this first world report of the Organization on the hearing.
In adults, protection from noise, monitoring drugs harmful to the ear and adopting good hygiene are recommended to avoid hearing loss. “
Untreated hearing loss can have a devastating impact on people’s ability to communicate, study and earn a living. It can also have an impact on their mental health and their ability to maintain relationships.
“, Warns Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO), in a press release.
Uneven distribution of specialists
According to the report, the lack of clear information about these disorders and the stigmatization of those who suffer from them “
often limit access to care
“. The organization insists on the need to set up screening “
at strategic moments in life
»And recalls that the Most ear diseases can be cured with medical or surgical treatment. And if the hearing loss is irreversible, rehabilitation, hearing aids and cochlear implants remain “
efficient
».
While the report highlights a dire shortage of ENTs and audiologists in low-income countries, she also notes a “
uneven distribution
»Specialists in those who are well endowed with them. WHO therefore calls on states to expand access to ear and hearing care services. A profitable investment since “
governments can expect a return on investment of almost $ 16 for every dollar invested
», Notes the organization.
– .
