(A118) Establishment of the African Otological Society (AfOS)

Introduction: Relative to the exponentially growing African population, there is a severe scarcity of otolaryngology providers, with an estimated ratio of 1.2 million persons per otolaryngology provider and 0.8 million persons per audiologist in sub-Saharan Africa. Otologic expertise is especially limited, with currently only one dedicated otology surgical training fellowship in Africa. We aimed to link the broader community of otology and audiology providers in Africa through the creation of an otology- and audiology-specific professional and educational network.

Methods: The African Otological Society (AfOS) was founded in November 2023 and utilizes an online-based platform. Membership is open to all African and international partners invested in addressing otology and audiology patient needs in Africa. There are no required fees for participation.

Results: There are currently 228 members in the AfOS with representation from 23 countries. Members participate in monthly, hour-long online/virtual meetings during which a given member presents on the otologic and audiologic capacities of their country followed by an otology and/or audiology related presentation with group discussion. Society members have access to free online educational resources through the website (www.afotos.org) including the University of Cape Town otolaryngology lecture series, as well as an online forum to aid in clinical discussions. Development of clinical practice guidelines specific to otologic care in a limited resource environment is also actively ongoing.

Conclusions: AfOS provides a novel platform for otolaryngology providers to not only share in educational and humanitarian resources, but also engage in training opportunities, clinical discussions, and expand the outreach of otology and audiology care in Africa.