Abstract:
Introduction: Hearing loss (HL) is complex and individual impact varies considerably. In addition, it has a significant impact on both the individual and society and can be found in all age groups throughout the lifespan. Hearing loss has many potential causes over one‟s lifetime unfortunately, little is known in the developing world about it. Furthermore, we do have limited data in Rwanda highlighting patterns and causes of hearing loss. The aim of this study was to determine the patterns and causes of hearing loss among patients consulting ENT/OPD at CHUK and will offer baseline epidemiological data for future researches.
Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in the department of otolaryngology-head & neck surgery at CHUK among patients from 5 years of age consulting ENT/OPD complaining of hearing loss. Using a questionnaire pre-designed for this study, data was collected from the history, carrying out ear examinations and referring to investigation reports.
Results: This study provided analysis regarding hearing impairment of 394 patients. The age ranged from 5 to 81 years (Mean 33.07, SD 18.42). Males constituted 50.8% (n=200) with a male to female ratio of 1.03:1. Students at 50.2% (n=198) was the commonest group of people. Mild hearing loss was the predominant degree of HL accounting for 57.8% (n=228) with the right ear involvement of 52.19% (n=119); left ear 47.80% (n=109). Regarding the type of hearing loss, the majority of patients, 62% (n=235) had CHL, 30.3% (n=115) had SNHL while mixed hearing loss accounted for 7.6% (n=29). Among known etiologies; CSOM was the most common cause accounting for 35% (n=138) followed by hearing loss due to head trauma 13.9% (n=55) then age related hearing loss 11.4% (n=45) and OME 7% (n=28). Furthermore, undefined causes accounted for 15.2% (n=60). 38% (n=151) of patients had no abnormality on examination. Otoscopic findings were variable and TM perforation was the most common abnormality found in 32.2% (n=131) of all patients examined .
Conclusion: The most common cause of HL is chronic suppurative otitis media which is preventable or treatable and young adult is the most affected population. Prevention, early diagnosis followed by appropriate interventions can effectively reduce hearing loss or minimize its impact.
