Hearing screenings to detect childhood deafness

Dear Donors,

It is a pleasure to reach out to you on this occasion to share the progress of our project on the Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Disabling Hearing Loss in Early Childhood, which we have been implementing in the three Child Centers of the Viviendo Juntos Corporation, located in Comuna 10 of our beloved city of Medellín.

At Óyeme, we are deeply committed to the health and well-being of young children, aware that the first years of life are crucial for the integral development of any human being. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the joint efforts of our professionals and collaborators, we have made significant strides in achieving the goals set for 2024.

What have we accomplished so far?

First and foremost, we are proud to report that we have conducted awareness workshops under the name “Súper Óyeme,” which have reached 288 children and 32 educational agents. These workshops have not only served to educate the little ones on how to care for their hearing, but they have also provided a valuable space to strengthen communication and understanding of the importance of maintaining good auditory health. Likewise, 81 parents have participated in the “Carrusel de Saberes”, a space that has enabled families to strengthen their practices in auditory care at home.

We know that early detection is key to preventing future complications, so we have conducted hearing screenings for 32 children. These screenings have been crucial in identifying potential hearing problems early, allowing us to refer cases requiring specialized attention to the healthcare system. In total, 13 children have been referred for specific medical care, and we are working closely with their families to ensure they receive the appropriate treatment.

Over these months, we have witnessed the creation of support networks among parents, teachers, and health professionals, which has strengthened our comprehensive approach to early childhood auditory care. This collaborative network is vital to ensuring that our project not only achieves its immediate goals but also has a lasting impact on the lives of these children and their families.

But, as with any great endeavor, we have also faced challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has been the absenteeism of some families from the scheduled activities due to the complex social and economic dynamics they face. However, we have learned to value even more those families who manage to participate; their motivation and commitment inspire us to keep moving forward.

Additionally, background noise in the child centers has been an obstacle during the hearing screenings. Despite this, we have found ways to adapt, ensuring that the tests are as accurate as possible, even in less than ideal environments.

What lies ahead in the coming months?

There is still much work to be done, and we are excited about the activities we have planned for the coming months. We will continue with the workshops, screenings, and knowledge-sharing sessions, always with the goal of improving the quality of life for the children in our community.

This is where we need your help more than ever. With your support, we can ensure that all the children benefiting from this project receive the care and assistance they need to reach their full potential. Every contribution, no matter how small, significantly impacts the health and well-being of these little ones, and we are infinitely grateful for the constant support you provide.

Thank you for believing in our mission and for being part of this collective effort to build a healthier and more promising future for the next generations.

With gratitude and hope,

Mariana Bohórquez Uribe
Communicator at Fundación Óyeme

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In a world where communication is fundamental to human development, hearing plays a crucial role. However, statistics reveal a worrying reality: one in five adults and one in a thousand children face hearing challenges that affect their quality of life and their ability to communicate. This fact leads us to reflect on the importance of early detection of hearing problems and their impact on the development of children's thinking, language and social integration.

A transforming initiative took place on March 16, 2024, in the heart of the Picacho neighborhood in Medellín, an extraordinary hearing screening day thanks to the collaboration between Fundación Óyeme and the Rotary Club Medellín El Poblado. This day was not only a medical event, it was an act of love and concern for the welfare of the youngest members of our community. 

Detection and hope tools equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

Our computerized biomedical equipment known as TITAN performed three fundamental tests: Tympanometry, Otoacoustic Otoemissions and Automated BERA. These tests not only detected possible abnormalities in the auditory system, but also provided hope by identifying opportunities to intervene and prevent delays in language and communication development.

Results and impact actions of the 26 children evaluated

15 children successfully passed the hearing screening, which will allow them to develop their hearing and communication skills to their full potential. Those who presented cerumen or did not meet the age criteria were given personalized attention and guidance to ensure their hearing health in the future. For those who required more in-depth intervention, referrals to hearing health specialists were provided, ensuring comprehensive and timely care.

This day was not only an opportunity to detect hearing problems, but also to strengthen awareness of the importance of hearing health in our community. Through the kindness, respect and dedication of everyone involved, we were able to create a quiet, spacious, organized and welcoming space where children and their families felt safe and supported.

In conclusion, the hearing screening day was a testament to the transformative power of collaboration and community care. We are deeply grateful to all the volunteers, donors and supporters who made this event possible. Your generosity and commitment inspire us to continue promoting early childhood hearing health and to work together to build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

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