Alpha Medical Specialists
Breaking the Silence, Bridging the Gap: Hearing Loss Advocacy through community Dialogues
Primary site: AFR – Uganda
Additional site(s):
“Kabake” community radio dialogues demonstrate a multifaceted approach to changing mindsets around hearing health
Reaching 1432 community members, 80% reported a lack of proper knowledge. The project directly confronted stigma and misconceptions, with nearly half the participants being family members of children with hearing loss. A participant’s powerful quote, “Today I learned…and will no longer stigmatize,” exemplifies the success in fostering immediate attitudinal change.
“Kabake” extended its impact beyond awareness. A panel discussion highlighted social issues like school dropout and gender-based violence linked to hearing loss. Live calls on the radio show emphasized the need for improved access to hearing health services, as the region lacks sufficient ENT specialists and audiologists. Recognizing the problem’s seriousness, policymakers pledged to prioritize ear and hearing health within the healthcare system. This collaborative approach, informed by recommendations for early screening and facility births, promises a more sustainable future for hearing health in Northern Uganda.
Live event: Yes
Screening: Yes
Traditional media: Yes
Social media: Yes
Met with individual policymakers: No
Participation of policymakers: Yes
Participation of influencers: No
WHO educational or publicity material used: Yes
Expert Panel Discussion at Radio Mega FM
Community Radio dialogue
Community Awareness Match on WHD
Screening on WHD