Addressing Childhood Hearing Impairment in Developing Countries
Author Information
Author(s): Bolajoko O. Olusanya
Primary Institution: Institute of Child Health, University College London
Hypothesis
The article examines the current profile of global health-care financing and the opportunities for promoting early hearing detection services in developing countries.
Conclusion
Current global health priorities for developing countries have yet to adequately address childhood hearing impairment as a significant health problem.
Supporting Evidence
- The number of children with hearing impairment is increasing globally.
- Two-thirds of individuals with hearing impairment live in developing countries.
- Permanent hearing impairment is often preventable.
- Current health financing does not adequately support early hearing detection services.
Takeaway
Many children in developing countries have hearing problems, but not enough is being done to help them. We need to make sure they get the help they need early on.
Potential Biases
The prioritization of health interventions may be biased against childhood hearing impairment due to a lack of data and recognition at the global level.
Limitations
The article highlights the lack of data on childhood hearing impairment and the influence of global health priorities that overlook this issue.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website