Hearing loss in the developing world
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© CBM
Lucky (who is four months old) being examined by medical assistant McDudley Mlozowa in Malawi
80% of deaf people live in low and middle-income countries. Deafness has a great impact in these low-income countries because of a lack of services, equipment, understanding and trained people.
Most prevalent disability
Hearing impairment is considered the most prevalent impairment worldwide.
Latest WHO figures on hearing loss (PDF, ~ 855kB) say that:
- About 360 million people worldwide live with disabling hearing loss (5.3% of the world's population).
- Higher prevalence of childhood hearing loss is associated with lower levels of development across regions
Impact of hearing loss
- Affect the development of speech and language skills in children.
- Lead to slow progress in school.
- Cause difficulties in obtaining, keeping and performing an occupation.
- Produce social isolation and stigmatisation at all ages.
- Cause poverty and place an economic burden on individuals and society.
