Early detection key to treating hearing loss

Our Correspondent
Kohima, March 3 (EMN): Timely and early intervention is essential for the prevention of hearing impairment, stated Dr. Kedozoto Pienyu, MD, Sr. Specialist (ENT) from Naga Hospital Authority Kohima.

He maintained that 50% of hearing problems are preventable, and that early detection and interventions are crucial for preventing hearing impairment.

He was addressing the World Hearing Day programme held at St. John’s School at Merhulietsa in Kohima on Tuesday. The programme was observed on the theme ‘Hearing for life. Don’t let hearing loss limit you’.

Pienyu informed that there are 360 million people in the world with hearing impairment, out of which 328 million are adults and 32 million children.

He also stated, “Out of 1000 births, one-three infants are having hearing impairment.”

The doctor added that accessibility of facilities, antenatal care and early detection of symptoms are essential for treatment.

Further, Pienyu maintained that hearing impairment is also acquired through wrong (self) medication, wax build-up, exposure to loud music and explosions.

The state programme officer of National Programme for Prevention and Control of Deafness (NPPCD), Dr. Tiasunup Pongener highlighted the overview of the programme and said that the government of India had started it in 2011.

He maintained that the government of Nagaland had, in line with the programme, carried out screening camp for children. The official also stated that parents, especially mothers, have ‘a great role to play in detecting symptoms as they usually spend maximum time with children’.

Pongener urged the teachers to sensitise and create awareness among the students about early detection and prevention. “Teachers are the best doctors for the students,” he said.

After a brief programme, free screening of schoolchildren with ear-related problems was conducted in the school campus, and medicines were distributed.