Moderator

Mr. Elvis T. Aboagye University of Cape Town South Africa

Speakers/Panelist

1. Dr Hela Azaiez University of lowa, USA
2. Ms. Jemima Fynn Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana
3. Ms. Malebo Malope Stellenbosch University, South Africa
4. Dr. Noluthando Manyisa University of Cape Town, South Africa
5. Dr. Samuel Adadey National Institute on Deafness and Other Communicable Disorders,

Themes

• Genetic testing and counseling for hereditary deafness
• Cultural assimilations and identities: genetic medicine for hereditary deafness
• Genetic counseling for hereditary deafness: inclusive and shared decision-making
• Ethical considerations in genetic testing for hereditary deafness

This Harambee virtual Café served as a dynamic platform for interdisciplinary dialogue and action on advancing culturally sensitive and inclusive practices in genetic medicine, with a specific focus on genetic testing and counselling for hereditary deafness within diverse cultural identities and frameworks. The benefits of genetic medicine for hereditary deafness are multifaceted. Not only does it dispel erroneous notions about the condition’s etiology, but it also enables precise recurrence risk counselling and offers potential prognostic insights. However, genetic medicine for hereditary deafness is complex, primarily due to the diverse cultural perspectives surrounding deafness itself. Speakers gave an overview of hearing loss condition, shared decision making and community engagement. Various factors affect decision making such as beliefs, culture, experience with deafness, perceptions of reproduction, stigma and treatment options. Researchers working in vulnerable communities should be engaged and immersed in communities.