A public health approach to pediatric hearing impairment in the Pacific Islands

Abstract

Childhood hearing impairment is a significant cause of disability in developing countries, where infectious diseases are the leading cause of avoidable pediatric hearing loss. The World Health Organization (WHO) theme for World Hearing Day 2016 was “Childhood hearing loss: act now, here’s how!”, with a focus on preventable childhood hearing impairment through public health measures. This message was reprised for World Hearing Day 2017 with “Action for hearing loss: make a sound investment”. The integration of pediatric audiology services with public health initiatives, combined with sustainable capacity- development and training of local health professionals, should reduce the burden of pediatric hearing impairment in developing countries, and make a positive contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The WHO defines public health as “the art and science of preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting health through the organized efforts of society”.