An estimated number of 466 million people have hearing disability, and World Health Organization estimates that by 2050, that figure will almost double, affecting one in 10 people.
In order to mark World Hearing Day 2019, WHO has launched a new mobile and web-based app called "hear WHO", which allow people to check their hearing ability from time to time, and respond quickly in case of hearing loss. It can also be used by health workers to screen people in community, and if they failed the test they can be referred for diagnostic testing.
Consequently, users of the app have been mandated to concentrate, listen and enter a series of numbers when prompted. These numbers have been recorded against different levels of background sound, feigning listening ability in everyday life. The app displays the users score, and its meaning, and stores the result of the test so that the user can monitor hearing status regularly.
The symptoms exhibit by hearing loss include a ringing sensation in the ear, referred to as tinnitus, frequently missing parts of a dialogue, or a tendency to increase the volume of television, radio or other audio devices.
The app is particularly useful to people who are frequently exposed to high level of sound, such as those who listen to loud music or work in noisy places; those who use medications that affect hearing and people that are above 60 years.
According to a statement issued by WHO, Dr. Shelly Chadha, Technical Officer of the organization, said that "once loss, hearing does not come back. Through World Hearing Day, and with the help of this app, we encourage people to check their hearing ability in order to help sustain this precious gift that makes life amazing."
1 comment:
What an innovation,i encourage you to use the app
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