Sources

"Hereditary Hearing Loss Test." Asper Biotech. 4 Aug. 2008. Asper Ophthalmics. 18 Feb. 2009 .

"Quick Statistics." NIDCD. 4 Aug. 2008. USA.gov. 18 Feb. 2009 .

Smith, Richard J, and Guy V. Camp. "Deafness and Hereditary Hearing Loss Overview." Gene Reviews. 2 Dec. 2008. 18 Feb. 2009 .

Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. "Hearing Loss – Congenital." WD. 2008. 18 Feb. 2009 .

"Organizations and Associations." Patient & Family Resource Guide. 19 Feb. 2009 .

How possible is it that cure will be found?

There is no cure for hereditary deafness right now; there are only treatments, such as hearing aids, perscription medications, etc. Scientists are currently working on finding some type of cure for hearing loss or to make hearing a bit better.

What are some organizations that can help a family cope with a child's disorder?

Some organizations that can help families with deafened members include:

Association of Late-Deafened Adults: http://www.alda.org/
This association is comprised of individuals who became deaf after the time of development of speech and language. The web site provides resources, information and promotes advocacy and awareness of the needs of deafened adults. It offers include a list of regional chapters and self-help support groups, an email board and discussion lists, volunteer opportunities, conference information and more.

The Hearing, Speech-Language and Learning Center at Beth Israel Medical Center: http://www.wehealnewyork.org/services/hearing/services/
The Beth Israel Medical Center web site describes the services of The Hearing Center, The Cochlear Implant Center, The Speech-Language Center and The Learning Center at Beth Israel Medical Center, New York City.

Alexander Graham Bell Association: www.agbell.org
Alexander Graham Bell is an international membership organization of parents of children who are deaf and hard of hearing, adults with hearing loss and professionals. This web site provides general hearing loss information, book recommendations, financial aid and scholarships, and action alerts on legislative developments.

American Society for Deaf Children (ASDC): www.deafchildren.org
ASDC is a national, non-profit membership organization providing support, encouragement, and information to families raising children who are deaf or hard of hearing. ASDC's primary mission is to advocate for the highest quality programs and services for parents so they can make informed choices about their children’s educational, communication, personal and social needs.

What limitations does the person have?

A person diagnosed with deafness is only limited by their hearing. Their other senses will react to things as others' can. Communication would be difficult with a deafened person, because to respond, the other person would have to understand sign language to make out what they're saying. A person would also need some type of assistant to help them, whether it's just a walk in the park or if the deafened person has a medical emergency.

What is everyday life like? What is the quality of life?

Everyday life for a person with hereditary deafness can be the same as a person who can hear, though sign language would help and play a big role during it. A deafened person can experience different things along the lines of doing rather than hearing.

How can the disease be treated?

Deafness can be treated with hearing aids, drugs, prescription medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes.

What is the life expectancy of someone with the disease?

A person can live a normal, healthy life while having hereditary deafness. They just won't be able to hear as well as others, but are definitely capable of doing anything anyone else can.