Newswise — Substance use disorders affect a broad range of people, including some of the estimated 37 million U.S. adults who are deaf or hard of hearing.1 Although relatively little is known about the rates of substance use disorders among this population, deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals with substance abuse issues likely face unique cultural and communication barriers to accessing appropriate treatment.2 It is critical that these individuals have access to facilities that are sensitive to Deaf culture and employ effective communication techniques, including American Sign Language. (For more information click here: http://oas.samhsa.gov/spotlight/Spotlight008HearingImpaired.pdf)
1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2008, October 9). Health status and routine physical activities in adults by hearing status. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/Features/dsHearing-Disparities/
2 Iezzoni, L. I., O’Day, B. L., Killeen, M., & Harker, H. (2004). Communicating about health care: Observations from persons who are deaf or hard of hearing. Annals of Internal Medicine, 140(5), 356-362.
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