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Background: In Andaman and Nicobar Islands, there is very limited study that provides information on different aspects of hearing loss and even data that indicates the prevalence of hearing loss is limited. This study aims to descriptively analyses different aspects of hearing loss and also estimate the prevalence of hearing loss in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Material and Method: Andaman and Nicobar Islands have only one ENT and Audiology setup which is located in Port Blair, at G. B. Pant Hospital. Any disorders and diseases related to hearing loss were referred and or one has to attend the only hospital from every corner of the Islands. A retrospective and descriptive analysis was conducted for a total of 7021 cases who were referred for Audiological diagnosis during 2018 to 2019, before the Coronavirus pandemic. A descriptive analysis was done for different types and degree of hearing loss. The Prevalence of Hearing Loss for various types and degree of hearing loss, and their correlation with gender and age was estimated. Results: Par degree of Hearing Impairment, of 7021 sample, the overall estimated prevalence of Hearing Impairment (HI) was 41.74%. Mild degree of HI (18.13%) was most prevalent and Profound HI (1.6%) was least prevalent. For type of Hearing loss, Bilateral SNHL (10.7%) was most prevalent and B/L Mixed HL (3.4%) was least prevalent. The prevalence of Unilateral CHL (10.06%) was surprisingly higher than other unilateral conditions. Par age, the prevalence of hearing loss was most significant among 14-50 age group. Par gender, results shows more prevalence in males than females. Conclusion: The estimated high prevalence of hearing loss will have negative impact in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Health education, adequate manpower, systematic awareness plan in rural and among socio – economically deprived is an eminent requirement in order to reduce the burden of hearing loss. Key words: Prevalence, HI: Hearing Impairment, HL: Hearing Loss, SSD: Single Sided Deafness, Andaman and Nicobar Islands (A & N Islands), Port Blair. PTA: Puretone Audiometry. |
