Doctor warns 8 million have hearing disorder

JAKARTA (JP): A total of eight million people are suffering from listening disorders, doctors said here Friday.

Without proper treatment, the disorder -- known as otitis media suppurativ chronic (OMSC) -- could be fatal, said Dr. Jainul A. Djaafar in a press conference here on Friday.

The ear, nose and throat (THT) specialist said the disease, mostly attacking people aged from 10 to 30, is caused by bacteria sliding from the throat and nose to the middle ear area. When infection develops, yellowish liquid will tear the ear drum and spills into the outer part of the ear.

The disease can be best handled in its early stages.

"But people's tendency to neglect the sickness often brings about serious consequences," Dr. Djaafar said.

The chronic illness could affect the brain functions through the forming of an abscess in the brain tissue and create complications. In this stage, surgery is needed.

"It is an expensive operation and could only be performed by specialists," he said.

In recent decades, he said, three to seven people have died annually because of the illness.

The press conference was held prior to the symposium which will be held on Sept. 25-28, 1999 by THT department of the medical faculty of University of Indonesia and Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital. (06)