Epidemiological profile of a hearing-impaired population

ABSTRACT: Purpose: to obtain the epidemiological profile of the hearing impaired population assisted in a public service regarding sociodemographic, clinical, assistance, communicative and behavioral aspects. Methods: descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study utilizing secondary data. The sample consisted of 307 users, from May 2009 to May 2011. A protocol for the authorization and concession of personal sound amplification product was used. Results: most of the patients were female, seniors over 60 years, with incomplete elementary education and retired. It was more common for users to have basic hearing exams at the time of evaluation at the hearing health center, moderate sensorineural hearing loss, and a presbycusis etiology. Regarding behavioral aspects, patients presented auditory reactions without the personal sound amplification products and verbalization. Conclusion: the results of this study support the planning of operational strategies and actions to better serve patients, especially senior citizens, and inform mothers and pregnant women of neonatal hearing screening for the early detection and rehabilitation of hearing loss.