Estimated prevalence of hearing loss and provision of hearing services in Pacific Island nations

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:Hearing impairment (HI) affects an estimated 538 million people worldwide, with 80% of these living in developing countries. Untreated HI in childhood may lead to developmental delay and in adults results in social isolation, inability to find or maintain employment, and dependency. Early intervention and support programmes can significantly reduce the negative effects of HI.AIM: To estimate HI prevalence and identify available hearing services in some Pacific countries-Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga.METHODS: Data were collected through literature review and correspondence with service providers. Prevalence estimates were based on census data and previously published regional estimates. RESULTS: Estimates indicate 20-23% of the population may have at least a mild HI, with up to 11% having a moderate impairment or worse. Estimated incidence of chronic otitis media in Pacific Island nations is 3-5 times greater than other Australasian countries in children under 10 years old. Permanent HI from otitis media is substantially more likely in children and adults in Pacific Island nations. Several organisations and individuals provide some limited hearing services in a few Pacific Island nations, but the majority of people with HI are largely underserved.DISCUSSION: Although accurate information on HI prevalence is lacking, prevalence estimates of HI and ear disease suggest they are significant health conditions in Pacific Island nations. There is relatively little support for people with HI or ear disease in the Pacific region. An investment in initiatives to both identify and support people with hearing loss in the Pacific is necessary.

Prevalence of otitis media and risk-factors for sensorineural hearing loss among infants attending Child Welfare Clinics in the Solomon Islands

“…There is little research evidence on NIHS programs in the Pacific Islands [9]. Although this region is estimated to have among the highest global burden of childhood hearing loss, audiology services are virtually non-existent [10]. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Project has created opportunities to address childhood disability through WHO/UNICEF initiatives [11,12].…”

Parental knowledge and attitudes to childhood hearing loss and hearing services in the Solomon Islands

“…Early hearing detection programs are usually based on a biomedical model of health care, however, the development of paediatric audiology initiatives should also consider non-biomedical beliefs regarding childhood hearing impairment, as these may influence parental hearing health-care and health-seeking behaviour [7][8][9]. Audiology services are limited or non-existent in the Pacific Islands [10]. Yet, the World Health Organisation estimates that this region has among the highest global burden of hearing loss worldwide [11].…”

Editorial: Catering for vulnerable populations: customised care

“…Our lead study found an estimated prevalence of hearing impairment of about one in five people in a number of Pacific Island nations, with the majority of those affected being underserved. 1 The authors call for a collaborative effort between researchers and health professionals, as well as local organisations and Pacific Island nation governments, to develop the required services. In her guest editorial, Dr Shelly Chadha from the World Health Organization identifies the lack of population-based data on hearing loss, especially in low-income countries.…”