The prevention of hearing loss worldwide.

Abstract

The prevalence of disabling hearing loss ( >40dB, average 0.5 - 4 KHz) is at least 120 million worldwide. It is estimated that half of this loss is preventable by primary means. These include genetic counselling, stricter supervision of ototoxic drug use, vaccination against common viral diseases, measles, mumps and in selected populations, rubella; vaccination against meningitis, better management of acute respiratory infections, noise control and the appropriate use of hearing protection. Education of individuals, communities and governments is an essential prerequisite to implementation.