Communication Disorders as a Public Health Issue

Communication Disorders as a Public Health Issue: Prevention, Policy, and Population-Level Perspectives reframes how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) understand, address, and advocate for communication health across the lifespan. Moving beyond an individual, clinic-centered model, this forward-thinking volume positions communication delays and disorders as a critical, and long-overlooked, public health priority. Written by an interdisciplinary team of scholars and clinicians, the book examines how speech, language, hearing, and literacy challenges intersect with education, mental health, health literacy, social determinants of health, and economic outcomes. From early identification and prevention models to the long-term consequences of untreated communication disorders in children and adults, this book equips SLPs with the evidence and frameworks needed to think upstream, act systemically, and lead change beyond traditional service delivery settings. Blending research, policy analysis, and real-world implications, this book empowers SLPs to expand their role as advocates, collaborators, and leaders in population health. It is an essential resource for clinicians, educators, administrators, and policymakers committed to improving communication access, equity, and outcomes at a community and societal level. Key Features Reframes communication disorders as a public health and health equity issue Integrates prevention, early identification, and lifespan perspectives Examines the social, emotional, educational, and economic impact of communication disorders Highlights the role of communication in health literacy and healthcare access Addresses disparities linked to social determinants of health Provides advocacy strategies for influencing policy and systems-level change Bridges clinical practice with public health, education, and policy frameworks