Jessica West, PhD, MPH, recently presented her poster, “Lancet Commission on Hearing Loss: Novel Tools to Measure Stigma,” at the 52nd Annual Scientific and Technology Conference of the American Auditory Society in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Last year, Dr. West, along with her colleagues Sherri L. Smith, AuD, PhD, and Howard Francis, MD, MBA, FACS, from Duke's Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences Department, published their findings in the Ear and Hearing. This work, in collaboration with colleagues at RTI International and other partners, documented the development and validation of innovative tools to measure stigma associated with being d/Deaf or hard of hearing.
Stigma poses a significant barrier to healthcare access and overall well-being. The newly developed tools are designed to measure and mitigate stigma. They are tailored for individuals who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing, their families, and healthcare providers. Additionally, these tools address stigma related to hearing devices and ageism. By understanding how stigma impacts individuals with hearing loss, these tools can inform the development of more effective programs and policies for hearing and ear health.
The American Auditory Society is dedicated to advancing knowledge about the ear, hearing, and balance, as well as the disorders and prevention of these conditions. The Society disseminates information through meetings and publications. With a multidisciplinary membership that includes experts in audiology, otolaryngology, engineering, and psychoacoustics, the Society provides a platform for the exchange of information across these fields.