Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay have developed a cost-effective device and application software for the diagnosis and management of Tinnitus, a condition commonly described as ringing in the ears.
Tinnitus, the perception of sound without any external stimulus, affects over 740 million adults globally, with more than 120 million people experiencing it as a significant health issue, according to data published in JAMA Neurology 2022. The condition severely impacts mental health, causing sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, irritability, and reduced quality of life.
The newly developed device offers a comprehensive approach to tinnitus care, including precise tinnitus matching, a customizable multimodal management system, and tools for tracking disease progression, all at an affordable cost.
As reported by economictimes, the project aims to empower clinicians with advanced diagnostic tools and provide patients with tailored tinnitus management solutions. The initiative was funded by the Tata Centre for Technology and Design (TCTD) and the Wadhwani Research Centre for Bioengineering (WRCB).
IIT Bombay hopes this innovation will improve access to effective tinnitus care and significantly enhance the quality of life for millions affected by the condition.