hearZATM Smart Phone app launched on International Hearing Day-2016

SOUTH AFRICA: In partnership with WHO's World Hearing Day-2016, the University of Pretoria has launched hearZATM, a National Hearing Test to screen for hearing loss, by means of a user-friendly smartphone application.

The International Hearing Day 2016 being celebrated by WHO aims to raise awareness among people about hearing loss and ear diseases, alongside offering multiple options for prevention through rightful ear care.

A multitude of 3.2 million suffering from a permanent hearing loss in South Africa , the hearZATM launch will provide access to early detection to anyone with a smartphone. A free download from iOS and Android app stores, this application will give users a free sponsored hearing screening test.

According to

Health 24

, hearZATM will be partnering with local professional organisations for hearing healthcare providers in order to make available widespread access to hearing healthcare services. Details of the closest hearing healthcare providers will be provided to individuals who fail a hearing test.

A referral system has been developed by the creators of the application to ensure that people who fail the hearZATM test are forwarded to their closest hearing health providers. Referral Platforms have been approached by audiological practices in order to receive hearZA referrals.260,000 hearZATM tests will be completed by the end of this year, an indication to the endeavour being made to make hearing healthcare easily accessible to individuals suffering from suspected or real hearing problems

The WHO on this day will be highlighting hearing loss as one of the most common chronic disabilities ranking high among lifestyle diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Audiologists will be conducting open days in their practices & talks will be organised for members of the public, including learners at schools.

Loud music, a very intrinsic part of recreation, today, is another important cause of hearing loss and tinnitus. Technology is coming up with hearing aid offerings that will now make devices available at affordable costs to those suffering from loss of hearing.