Hearing loss among forcibly displaced children: a scoping review on the critical areas of concern

Hearing loss is a public health concern that disproportionately affects children who have been forcibly displaced. This study aimed to answer the research question: 'What are the critical areas of concern affecting forcibly displaced children with hearing loss?'

A scoping review was conducted to map the critical areas of concern affecting forcibly displaced children with hearing loss and captured the views of those involved in their care. The search was performed across four databases: Medline, CINAHL, Scopus and PsycINFO.

Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria.

The major themes indicated that scholarly work focuses on the prevalence of hearing loss and its related ear pathologies, timely detection, hearing health service access and delivery, associated health complications, risk factors and impact of hearing loss. There is an underrepresentation of studies on the views of caregivers and those conducted in lower-resourced regions.

Hearing health disparities are perpetuated by the circumstances of displacement, and evidence supports the call for action to place culturally responsive practice at the forefront of hearing healthcare. A strategic focus on the critical areas of concern can inform targeted initiatives and emerging policies to alleviate the burden of hearing loss in this underserved population.