Genetics and Gene based Therapies: Emerging Horizons in the Management of Hereditary Hearing Disorders in India

Abstract

Hearing loss remains a major public health concern in India, with congenital and early onset hearing impairment contributing significantly to long term disability, educational disadvantage and socio-economic burden. A substantial proportion of these cases are hereditary, yet clinical management has traditionally focussed on rehabilitation rather than etiological treatment. Rapid advancement in human genetics and gene based therapies are now poised to transform this landscape, offering Indian otolaryngologists an opportunity to move forward precision driven and potentially curative interventions.