Deafness and its prevention—Indian scenario

Abstract

Auditory sense is crucial for the mental development of a child and for the human abilities and social adaptation subsequently in life. Unfortunately, for various reasons the deafness has not drawn enough attention. There have been many studies in India on etiology and prevalence on regional basis. Rural population has been shown to be affected more often than the urban population. Poor economic background has also been held partially responsible. The lack of health awareness and education has played a significant role in high incidence of hearing impairment. Primary and secondary prevention have not been paid due attention. There are very few multicentric studies available. However, there are some studies which have been able to clearly assess the magnitude of the problem, etiology and areas which need thrust. The studies have also shown that it is feasible to focus attention to primary and secondary prevention through the existing health infrastructure with some modifications. Main emphasis has been on health education with special attention to hearing impairment and its prevention, proper attention to pre- and postnatal causes in early age and care of upper respiratory infections. Emphasis is on a nationwide programme to pay focussed attention to the primary and secondary prevention of hearing impairment in addition to dealing with those already affected.

A Summary of the Literature on Global Hearing Impairment

“…An estimated 80 million people in the country have significant HL, 35 million of whom are younger than 14 years (12). Comprehensive information on the causes of HL in India is lacking, but it has been reported Local beliefs and community attitudes play a predominant role in the success of immunization programs (31) No supported infant screening programs in place; G60% of patients that do undergo screening return for follow-up (32) (Continued on next page) that the most common preventable cause of profound HL is congenital rubella, with estimates ranging from approximately 30 (38) Overall, the prevalence of HL is greater in rural than in urban areas (12). In 1 study, the prevalence of HL was found to be significantly associated with economic status (13).…”

Newborn screening in India: Current perspectives

“…Scanty school surveys are available from both rural and urban setup and demonstrate prevalence of 6.3% of cases in the urban group and 32.8% in the rural group (12).…”

Knowledge and Beliefs about Ear and Hearing Health among Mothers of Young Children in a Rural Community in South India

“…Poverty, ignorance, poor hygiene, inadequate medical guidance, and customs and beliefs based on tradition and culture are reported to be reasons for poor health awareness (Kumar, 1997). Having appropriate health-related information ensures that people are better equipped to access services (WHO, 2010).…”