Ear and hearing screening of an underserved community in the Philippines

Background Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are on the rise globally, but in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), resources are often prioritised for communicable diseases. Untreated hearing loss—an NCD—may seem minor but carries serious long-term consequences, including substantial economic costs primarily due to unemployment. We partnered with local authorities capable of influencing and sustaining a hearing screening program. We also engaged policymakers to consider integrating hearing screening into their well-established vision screening programs. Methods A single-site hearing screening program was implemented in partnership with the EyeHear Foundation and Region 8 Department of Health, Philippines. Staff members were trained to perform basic video otoscopy, middle ear analysis, and pure tone audiometry. Demographic and clinical data were collected to describe the clinical characteristics of screened participants. Results Approximately 10% of participants were referred for further medical attention at partnered tertiary hospitals. Over half failed audiometric screening, with most cases identified as late intervention. About 20% were offered hearing aid evaluation and scheduled for follow-up. Conclusions Ongoing partnership, education, and training are essential to support follow-up and ensure continuity of hearing screening. Sustainability can be strengthened through continuous audiology training, fellowships with local professionals, remote continuing medical education, and memoranda of understanding between organisations. Follow-up care is critical in screening programs, and the analysed clinical data can support policymakers in prioritising resources and implementing effective health behaviour interventions.