The World Health Organization’s data shows that in 2018 approximately 466 million people were living with hearing loss worldwide. However, only approximately 5-10% of adults who could benefit from cochlear implants (CIs) across the globe have CIs. This gap in provision results in a massive public health issue in dealing with the consequences of unaddressed hearing loss despite the proven benefits of cochlear implants.
On February 25, 2021, HLAA joined an international celebration of cochlear implants.
We also are delighted to announce the launch of the Cochlear Implant International Community of Action (CIICA). CIICA is a new and innovative community of organizations, individuals and experts sharing the vision of increasing the access to cochlear implants and lifelong support for those who benefit from them. HLAA is one of the founding members of CIICA. We look forward to working with CIICA to bring greater education and awareness about CIs in the U.S. and around the world. Look for news about CIICA on their website (http://www.ciicanet.org).