Childhood hearing impairment and its associated factors in sub-Saharan Africa in the 21st century: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Childhood hearing impairment is still a significant cause of disability in the 21st century in developing countries. Particularly, the burden is more severe in sub-Saharan Africa, where the majority of children with hearing problems is living. Thre are great variations and inconsistencies of available findings conducted in sub-Saharan Africa. Hence, the aim of this review was to determine the pooled prevalence of childhood hearing impairment and its associated factors in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

Studies were searched from main databases (PubMed, CINAHL, and African Journals Online), Google Scholar, and other relevant sources using electronic and manual techniques. All observational studies, written in English and conducted among participants (aged less than 18 

SUBMITTER: Desalew A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7222652 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature