According to a WHO report, one in five people worldwide currently suffers from some form of hearing impairment. Lack of timely treatment and care is a major reason for the rise in cases.
WHO Hearing Report
Hearing problems are rapidly increasing worldwide. According to the World Health Organization's first World Report on Hearing, by 2050, approximately 2.5 billion people, or one in every four, will suffer from some level of hearing impairment. Of these, approximately 700 million will require specialized hearing and hearing-related hospitality and rehabilitation services. So, let's explain why one in every four people will experience hearing problems by 2050 and what else the WHO report revealed.
What is the current situation?
According to the WHO report, one in every five people in the world currently has some kind of hearing impairment. Lack of timely treatment and care is a major reason for the increase in cases. The WHO states that 80 percent of such cases occur in low-income countries, where there is a severe shortage of experts and resources. Additionally, infections, congenital diseases, noise pollution, prolonged exposure to loud noise, and unhealthy lifestyles are all contributing to hearing loss. Approximately 60% of cases in children can be prevented through vaccination, improved maternal and childcare, and timely treatment of ear infections. Listening to loud music is becoming a significant risk among young people. According to a United Nations report, more than one billion people aged 12 to 35 are at risk due to listening to loud music on smartphones and headphones.
A significant shortage in healthcare systems is also a factor.
A WHO report indicates that many countries face a severe shortage of ear, nose, and throat specialists, audiologists, and speech therapists. Ear and hearing care remains under-resourced within primary healthcare systems, leading to inadequate early detection and timely treatment. Experts also emphasize that early detection is crucial for hearing loss. New technologies now make diagnosis possible even with limited resources. Many ear conditions can be treated with medication or surgery. Where hearing loss cannot be restored, options such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, and speech therapy prove helpful. The WHO estimates that for every dollar invested in hearing and hearing services, governments can generate approximately $16 in social and economic benefits. The impact of hearing loss goes beyond communication; it also impacts education, employment, and mental health. Furthermore, the WHO states that it can increase the risk of social isolation and depression.
