Hearing problems are increasing rapidly around the world. According to the World Health Organization’s first World Report on Hearing, by 2050, approximately 2.5 billion people, or one in four, will suffer from some level of hearing loss. Of these, approximately 700 million people will require specialized hearing and hearing-related hospitalization and rehabilitation services. So, let’s explain why one in four people will have hearing problems by 2050 and what else the WHO report revealed.
What is the situation now?
According to WHO report, one in five people worldwide is currently suffering from some kind of hearing problem. Lack of timely treatment and care is a major reason for the increase in these cases. WHO says that 80 percent of such cases occur in low-income countries, where there is a severe shortage of experts and resources. Apart from this, infections, congenital diseases, noise pollution, prolonged exposure to loud noises and unhealthy lifestyle all lead to hearing loss. About 60% of cases in children can be prevented by vaccination, better mother and child care and timely treatment of ear infections. Listening to loud music is becoming a big risk among the youth. According to a report by the United Nations, more than one billion people aged 12 to 35 are at risk due to listening to loud music through smartphones and headphones.
Major deficiencies in the health system also contribute to this.
A WHO report shows that there is a huge shortage of ear, nose and throat specialists, audiologists and speech therapists in many countries. Ear and hearing care in primary health care is still low, due to which early detection and timely treatment is not possible. Experts also emphasize that early detection is very important for hearing loss. New technology now makes diagnosis possible even with less resources. Many ear diseases can be treated with medicine or surgery. Where hearing loss cannot be cured, options like hearing aids, cochlear implants and speech therapy prove helpful. WHO estimates that for every dollar invested in hearing and listening services, governments can achieve approximately $16 in social and economic benefits. The impact of hearing loss is not limited to conversation; It also affects education, employment and mental health. Additionally, WHO says it may increase the risk of social isolation and depression.
