Deafness and its prevention--Indian scenario.

Auditory sense is crucial for the mental development of a child and for the human abilities and social adaptation subsequently in life. Unfortunately, for various reasons the deafness has not drawn enough attention. There have been many studies in India on etiology and prevalence on regional basis. Rural population has been shown to be affected more often than the urban population. Poor economic background has also been held partially responsible. The lack of health awareness and education has played a significant role in high incidence of hearing impairment. Primary and secondary prevention have not been paid due attention. There are very few multicentric studies available. However, there are some studies which have been able to clearly assess the magnitude of the problem, etiology and areas which need thrust. The studies have also shown that it is feasible to focus attention to primary and secondary prevention through the existing health infrastructure with some modifications. Main emphasis has been on health education with special attention to hearing impairment and its prevention, proper attention to pre- and postnatal causes in early age and care of upper respiratory infections. Emphasis is on a nationwide programme to pay focussed attention to the primary and secondary prevention of hearing impairment in addition to dealing with those already affected.