MediumIndigenous HealthOtitis media and hearing loss impactau-racgpau-amc
A 5-year-old Aboriginal boy from a remote community presents with persistent nasal discharge, mouth breathing and snoring. Otoscopy reveals bilateral tympanic membrane retraction with fluid levels. According to ear health programs such as Hearing Assessment Program - Early Ears, what is the MOST important reason to address his ear disease promptly?