Cochlear implants (CIs) are remarkable solutions for severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss globally. Access to cochlear implants in developing countries is not without challenges. This study examined the chall...Cochlear implants (CIs) are remarkable solutions for severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss globally. Access to cochlear implants in developing countries is not without challenges. This study examined the challenges of CI users in Jos, Nigeria. The study is a cross-sectional survey that used a convenient sampling technique to sample 41 respondents. CICQ questionnaire was used to elicit data from the respondents. A simple percentage was used to analyze the data. The results revealed that 62.5% of the CI users lived below 100,000 Naira (USD244) as their yearly income. The majority (93.75%) have severe to profound hearing loss bilaterally but used CI unilaterally. Cost and access to CI accessories and management have affected the economic, social and psychological life of the CI users and that of their relations. ENT personnel said that the demand for CI in their facility is very high and managing CI users is very challenging due to inadequate manpower, finance and equipment. Easy access to CIs, their accessories and services at affordable cost, effective training for ENT personnel, and adequately equipped health facilities were recommended.展开更多
文摘Cochlear implants (CIs) are remarkable solutions for severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss globally. Access to cochlear implants in developing countries is not without challenges. This study examined the challenges of CI users in Jos, Nigeria. The study is a cross-sectional survey that used a convenient sampling technique to sample 41 respondents. CICQ questionnaire was used to elicit data from the respondents. A simple percentage was used to analyze the data. The results revealed that 62.5% of the CI users lived below 100,000 Naira (USD244) as their yearly income. The majority (93.75%) have severe to profound hearing loss bilaterally but used CI unilaterally. Cost and access to CI accessories and management have affected the economic, social and psychological life of the CI users and that of their relations. ENT personnel said that the demand for CI in their facility is very high and managing CI users is very challenging due to inadequate manpower, finance and equipment. Easy access to CIs, their accessories and services at affordable cost, effective training for ENT personnel, and adequately equipped health facilities were recommended.
