September marks National Deaf Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the deaf and hard-of-hearing population.

In South Africa, about 12 million people, or about 20% of the population, experience hearing loss, with nearly 3.6 million requiring treatment. Alarmingly, less than 10% of these individuals are currently receiving the necessary care, according to the 2021 World Hearing Report.

How hearing loss occurs

Hearing loss can occur due to various factors, including age, exposure to loud noises, infections, and genetic conditions. Some people may not recognise the symptoms of hearing loss until it significantly impacts their daily lives.

Sudden loss of hearing, whether in one or both ears, should prompt immediate medical attention.

Dr Matodzi Mukosi, CEO of Tygerberg Hospital (TBH), emphasises the importance of early intervention.

“If you lose your hearing suddenly, you must see a doctor as soon as possible,” he advises. Early diagnosis can lead to effective treatments, such as hearing aids or cochlear implants.

The impact on children and adults

Hearing loss affects individuals differently. For children, it can hinder language development, lead to poor educational outcomes, and limit future job opportunities.

According to TBH’s Audiology Department, timely interventions can significantly improve a child's prospects. Jenny Birkenstock, assistant director for Speech Therapy and Audiology at TBH, states: “Providing accurate information and raising awareness around hearing loss is the first step towards empowerment.”

Fatima Ally, audiologist at Tygerberg Hospital. Picture: Supplied

For adults, hearing loss can lead to social isolation, frustration, and a decline in self-esteem.

Fatima Ally, an audiologist at TBH, shares her personal experience of losing hearing in one ear. “Not hearing in one ear was a real struggle for me, but it helped me identify with the frustrations my patients experience,” she explains.

Despite the prevalence of hearing loss, many individuals remain unaware of the resources available to them. TBH has made significant strides in addressing this issue, serving more than 7 700 patients in 2023 alone, fitting 648 hearing aids, and providing 56 cochlear implants.

To improve communication with those who have hearing difficulties, TBH’s audiologists recommend several strategies:

Speak slowly at a normal volume; do not shout.
Ensure the listener has your visual attention before speaking.
Make your mouth and face clearly visible.
Move closer to the listener.
Rephrase rather than repeat missed words.
Indicate when the topic of conversation changes.
Reduce background noise when possible.
Encourage the listener to ask for clarification if they do not understand.

Accessing support

For those seeking help, local healthcare facilities can refer individuals to speech therapists or audiologists. Early identification of hearing problems is crucial, especially in children.

Delaying this can hinder their development in language and communication skills.

As we observe National Deaf Awareness Month, it’s vital to recognise the significance of hearing health in our communities.

By seeking timely medical care and raising awareness, we can empower individuals with hearing loss and create a more inclusive society. Hearing is an essential part of communication, and everyone deserves access to the support they need.