Prevalence, Pattern, and Etiology of Hearing Loss in a Tertiary Otolaryngology Center in Central Yemen

Abstract

Background and Aims: Hearing loss (HL) is a significant public health concern. Research on its prevalence and pattern are crucial for understanding its causes, identifying high-risk populations, developing prevention strategies, and ultimately, improving the quality of life for people with HL. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the prevalence, pattern, and causes (etiology) of HL among patients attending our ENT Hospital. Study Design: This study was a retrospective review of existing medical records of patients from a Tertiary ENT Hospital in Yemen to determine the prevalence, patterns, and causes of HL among patients attending ENT centers. Results: A total of 951 patients were included in this study. The prevalence of HL was found to be 29.7%. The most commonly affected age group was 11–20 years old, with conductive HL being the most frequent subtype 65.1%. Sensorineural HL followed at 27.8%, and mixed HL was present in 7.1% of patients. Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) 29.5% was identified as the most common cause of HL, followed by otitis media with effusion and wax impaction. Conclusion: HL is a significant public health concern in developing countries. CSOM is a major contributor to HL in this population, and age plays a role in the type of HL experienced.