By Joke Kujenya
HEARING LOSS is a growing global concern, with over 1.5 billion people currently affected.
Without urgent intervention, that figure could rise to 2.5 billion by 2050, making early detection and preventive care crucial.
Many cases of hearing loss are preventable, yet millions remain undiagnosed due to a lack of routine hearing checks.
To address this issue, the World Health Organization (WHO) announces it is launching a new initiative on World Hearing Day 2025, emphasising early detection and self-monitoring.
The campaign encourages individuals to check their hearing regularly, particularly those at higher risk—people frequently exposed to loud music, working in noisy environments, taking medications harmful to hearing, or aged 60 and above.
To facilitate self-assessment, WHO has developed the hearWHO app, a mobile and web-based tool using validated digits-in-noise technology.
The app allows users to screen their hearing status, monitor changes over time, and access personalised records.
It is designed for widespread use, particularly benefiting individuals who often use personal audio devices at high volumes.
Health workers can also utilise the app to screen communities and refer individuals for further diagnostic testing if necessary.
Guided by an advisory group comprising Dr Jackie Clark, Dr Deborah Ferrari, Dr Cas Smits, and Dr De Wet Swanepoel, WHO ensures the app’s reliability in assessing hearing health.
The initiative aligns with Year 2025 theme: “Changing mindsets: empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all!”
WHO says it seeks to shift public perception, promoting proactive hearing care and behaviour change.
Early signs of hearing loss include difficulty following conversations, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, persistent ringing in the ears (tinnitus), muffled speech and sounds, and an increased need to raise the volume of televisions or music.
Addressing these symptoms early can prevent further deterioration and improve quality of life.
Preventive measures include keeping audio volumes below 60%, using noise-cancelling headphones, taking breaks from loud environments, and wearing ear protection at concerts or noisy workplaces.
Mobile apps can also help track and manage sound exposure levels, offering practical tools to maintain hearing health.
With the launch of the WHO campaign, individuals are now encouraged to take responsibility for their hearing and advocate for better hearing care policies.
The WHO says that empowering people to prioritise ear and hearing health can drive meaningful change at both personal and societal levels, ensuring a future where hearing loss is detected and managed early.
