Ear and hearing health in children

Abstract

Hearing loss is common in childhood. The most common causes of hearing loss varies by age. In childhood this is most frequently due to Otitis Media with Effusion (OME, also known as ‘glue ear’) or Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM)). In adolescence hearing loss can result from exposure to loud noise from environmental causes or personal listening devices. Hearing loss has a significant impact upon the ability to learn, socialize and work. Effective early interventions exist and make a difference to speech, access to education, socialization and employment opportunities. The World Health Organization is prioritizing hearing health globally via the World Hearing Forum (WHF) and child health organizations are invited to join. This short review, aimed at healthcare professionals working with children and young people highlights the scale of the problem, provides a global perspective and outlines some of the possible solutions.