Poverty increases the risk of falling ill.
Poverty is linked to poorer health outcomes across all populations. However, the additional healthcare costs related to disabilities can place an even greater financial burden on persons with disabilities. Furthermore, the four categories—poverty, exclusion, health, and disability—are interdependent, creating vicious cycles that reinforce one another. As persons with disabilities are less likely to access education and employment opportunities, they are more prone to living in poverty. This situation leads to inadequate living conditions, increases their exposure to health risks, and ultimately heightens their vulnerability to negative health outcomes.
For instance, recurring middle ear infections can lead to hearing impairment. In children, almost 60 per cent of hearing loss is preventable. Unfortunately, persons with hearing impairments in low and middle-income countries have minimal access to hearing aids, as less than 10 per cent of global demand is currently being met.
Causes of congenital and acquired hearing impairment
Congenital hearing impairment can manifest itself in the womb due to genetic defects, infections or the use of hearing-damaging medication. Factors such as low birth weight, lack of oxygen or jaundice can also cause hearing impairment during or shortly after birth.
Hearing loss can occur at any age. The most common triggering factors include infections such as mumps or meningitis, middle ear infections, injuries to the inner ear and the use of hearing-damaging medications, such as antibiotics or anti-malarial drugs.
Effects of hearing impairment
Persons with hearing impairments face numerous challenges, including social exclusion, economic hardship, and limited educational opportunities. People who are deaf or hard of hearing, particularly children with limited resources, may experience increased rates of non-attendance in educational institutions. This phenomenon ultimately hinders students' capacity to graduate, pursue higher education, and secure meaningful employment opportunities.
