Our genes or DNA contain the instructions that tell the cells of our bodies how to work and grow and there are many genes involved in hearing.

Our Clinical Director Professor Bill Newman is one of the speakers at a virtual symposium, organised by the Alder Hey Academy in association with the University of Liverpool, to discuss the genetics of hearing loss, including paediatric and adult genetic hearing losses.

Genetic factors make some people more susceptible to hearing loss than others and it is estimated that the causes of age-related hearing loss are between 35-55% genetic.

Sometimes both genes and environmental factors together cause hearing loss, ranging from medicines that cause hearing loss to certain mutations in our genes.

The bulk of hearing loss in babies is due to genetic causes and to a lesser extent, environmental causes during pregnancy and childbirth.

The event is being held on 29 April 2022, between 08:30 and 13:30, and is aimed at all professionals involved with the diagnosis and management of hearing issues.

For more information, please contact theacademy@alderhey.nhs.uk