Hearing loss and Stem Cells
Acquired sensorineural hearing loss is a loss in hearing after birth. The condition has a variety of causes including aging, noise, tumours, or medicines. Viral infections such as measles, mumps and meningitis can also cause hearing loss, as can trauma to the head or inner ear.[1] Damage to the auditory nerve or to the sensitive hair cells inside the inner ear is the ultimate cause.[2]
Unfortunately, acquired sensorineural hearing loss is permanent and hearing cannot be regained; however, at present hearing aids may help those affected. In severe cases, a cochlear implant can be of benefit.[1]
Hearing Loss Facts
- Approximately 34 million children live with moderate to profound hearing loss worldwide.[3]
- A UAE study found approximately 5 babies per 1,000 newborns were identified with hearing loss.[4]
- 1.5 billion people live with some degree of hearing loss globally.[5]
- By 2050, it is estimated that 2.5 billion people will be affected by hearing loss.[5]
- Common childhood illnesses, including measles, mumps, rubella, meningitis, and ear infections, are responsible for more than 30% of hearing loss cases among children.[5]
Acquired Sensorineural Hearing Loss and Stem Cells
Unfortunately there is no treatment currently available which can repair or reverse acquired hearing loss. However, recent trials using human umbilical cord blood in animal models have shown regrowth of hair cells and some recovery of the auditory brainstem response. These trials with animal models have now developed into a human trial. The trial aims to determine safety, efficacy, and if an infusion of the child’s own cord blood stem cells can improve their hearing, inner ear function, and language development.[6]
There are currently 11 clinical trials investigating the application of stem cells in hearing loss.[7]
References
- http://www.healthyhearing.com/report/50276-Common-causes-of-sensorineural-hearing-loss
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hearing-loss/
- https://www.ndcs.org.uk/deaf-child-worldwide
- Ayas, M., & Yaseen, H. (2021). Emerging Data from a Newborn Hearing Screening Program in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. International journal of pediatrics, 2021, 2616890. https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/2616890
- https://www.who.int/news-room/facts-in-pictures/detail/deafness
- https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?term=stem+cells+acquired+sensorineural+hearing+loss&Search=Search
- https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?term=stem+cells+hearing+loss&Search=Search
- Journal of audiology & otology, 22(4), 209–222. https://doi.org/10.7874/jao.2018.00115
The information contained in this article is for information purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of a medical expert. If you have any concerns about your health we urge you to discuss them with your doctor.
