The World Health Organization’s Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, has reported that an estimated 135 million people in Africa suffer from ear and hearing problems. She emphasized that this number is on the rise, and if current trends continue, it is projected that by 2050, over 338 million individuals could be affected by these issues in the region. Dr. Moeti made these statements in a press release to mark the 2023 World Hearing Day, which is observed every March 3 to raise awareness about deafness and the prevention of hearing loss, as well as to promote ear and hearing care globally. This year’s theme is “Ear and hearing care for all! Let’s make it a reality.”
Dr. Moeti highlighted that the burden of ear and hearing problems reflects significant inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalized populations. She noted that globally, more than 1.5 billion people live with ear problems and hearing loss, with nearly 80 percent residing in low- and middle-income countries. In Africa, the rising numbers of individuals with ear and hearing issues underscore the urgent need for effective intervention. She acknowledged the efforts made by various countries to address hearing care through the development and implementation of national strategies for ear health.
However, Dr. Moeti pointed out several critical challenges faced by patients. Many individuals with hearing loss are unaware of how to seek help or lack access to necessary services, which significantly impacts their lives, as well as the lives of their families and communities. Additionally, the excessive burden of these conditions is exacerbated by the limited availability of ear, nose, and throat specialists and audiologists in many African countries. The collective failure to adequately address hearing loss in the region results in nearly $30 billion in economic losses.
Dr. Moeti stated that over 60 percent of common ear diseases and hearing loss can be detected and often managed at the primary care level. Unfortunately, access to ear and hearing care is frequently restricted to highly specialized centers and clinics. She emphasized the importance of addressing these conditions across the continuum of care, as individuals often need to seek specialized services in distant hospitals.
To improve the situation, Dr. Moeti urged governments to prioritize ear and hearing care health programs within their noncommunicable diseases and universal healthcare agendas. She called for increased political and financial commitment, as well as the expansion of newborn hearing screening services and the effective accessibility of hearing aid technology.
For patients suffering from ear and hearing conditions, she recommended that they educate themselves about these issues and seek care when necessary, including promoting hearing screening services. Dr. Moeti concluded by urging all stakeholders to unite and take action on these recommendations, integrating ear and hearing care services into district health systems and primary healthcare.
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