Allied Medical Sciences at Al-Ahliyya Amman University Publishes Two Scientific Studies in Prestigious International Journals on Hearing and Ear Health

As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting applied scientific research and enhancing its impact on community service, Al-Ahliyya Amman University has achieved a new research milestone through the publication of two scientific studies by faculty members from the Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences in prestigious international journals. The studies addressed important topics related to awareness of hearing loss and ear health among adults in Jordan, as well as health sciences students’ awareness of the major causes of hearing loss in children. This achievement reflects Al-Ahliyya Amman University’s dedication to supporting research that addresses priority public health issues and its commitment to encouraging publication in reputable international journals, thereby strengthening its position as a leading academic institution at both the national and international levels. The first study examined the level of awareness regarding hearing loss and ear health among adults in Jordan and included participants from various regions across the Kingdom. The findings revealed that most participants possessed a good general understanding of hearing and ear health. However, several misconceptions remain and require further attention, particularly regarding the causes of hearing loss, proper ear-cleaning practices, and the importance of seeking medical consultation when experiencing sudden hearing problems. The second study focused on evaluating the knowledge and perceptions of university students in Jordan regarding childhood hearing loss, particularly among students in health-related disciplines. The results indicated that students recognize the importance of early screening and therapeutic intervention. Nevertheless, there is a clear need to strengthen their clinical knowledge of risk factors and medical causes of hearing loss in children, including intrauterine infections, neonatal jaundice, meningitis, oxygen deprivation at birth, and certain medications that may affect hearing. The significance of these studies lies in highlighting important health issues that may not always receive adequate attention despite their long-term impact on language and speech development, academic achievement, psychological and social well-being, and overall quality of life among both children and adults. The findings also provide a scientific foundation for the development of awareness and training programs targeted at the community and students in health-related fields, contributing to improved prevention, early diagnosis, and evidence-based intervention. In this context, the Hearing and Speech Center at Al-Ahliyya Amman University serves as an important practical model for linking scientific research with community service. The center provides specialized hearing and speech services, promotes public awareness of hearing and ear health, and contributes to the early detection of hearing and communication disorders. The center also offers a valuable educational and training environment that enables students to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings and develop their ability to use scientific research to understand community needs and provide evidence-based healthcare solutions. This achievement reflects the pioneering role of the Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences at Al-Ahliyya Amman University in supporting applied scientific research and generating knowledge that contributes to community service and addresses real-world health challenges. It further demonstrates the excellence of the faculty’s academic staff, their ability to conduct research with both scientific and societal impact, and their success in building effective local and international research partnerships. The two studies were conducted by Professor Yazan Qamouh from the Department of Optometry, Lecturer Leila Qanawati, and Lecturer Rama Al-Aseer from the Department of Hearing and Speech at the Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, in collaboration with Dr. Riman Marzouqa from California State University, Fullerton. This collaboration serves as a model of academic integration and international cooperation in advancing research in the fields of hearing, speech, and ear health. To Access the studies: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0316622 https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/html/10.1055/s-0046-1832608