Hearing Loss Facts

Hearing aids are unaffordable for most people in the developing world and underserved communities. We work to ensure the disadvantaged have access to the hearing care they need. The theme for World Hearing Day 2017 is the economic impact of hearing loss. Unaddressed hearing loss is extremely costly for the global economy and has a significant impact on the lives of those affected. Interventions to address hearing loss are available and are cost-effective. Learn more

Hearing By The Numbers
1.3 billion
people suffer from hearing loss.
360 million
suffer from disabling hearing loss.
80%
live in low and middle income countries.
< 1 in 40
have access to hearing aids.
Unaddressed hearing loss costs
$750 billion
annually.
Why Hearing Matters
Why Hearing Matters

Hearing influences nearly every aspect of our daily lives, from our ability to earn a living to the quality of our relationships. Better hearing allows people to succeed in school, find good jobs, and participate in their communities. By addressing hearing loss we can promote better health, greater educational attainment, and higher levels of economic productive.