Hearing loss risks highlighted by specialist Dr. Zeki Özsoy

Otolaryngologist Dr. Zeki Özsoy has issued warnings regarding the risks of permanent hearing loss, particularly among young people and workers in high-noise environments. He noted that prolonged exposure to loud music through headphones, working in noisy factories, or using firearms can lead to acoustic trauma.

According to World Health Organization data, permanent congenital hearing loss affects 2 to 3 out of every 1,000 births, a rate consistent with Turkey. To address this, Turkey implements a Newborn Hearing Screening Program for all infants. Dr. Özsoy emphasized that early diagnosis is critical for speech development, as hearing is the prerequisite for the brain to process and repeat words.

Effective interventions for early-diagnosed cases include medical treatment, hearing aids, cochlear implants, and specialized education. Potential causes of hearing loss include genetic factors, pregnancy infections, birth complications, middle ear infections, eardrum diseases, trauma, medication side effects, aging, and long-term noise exposure.