Hearing care call rung out on World Hearing Day
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 29 2025: The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Deafness (NPPCD), State Health Society, National Health Mission, Manipur observed World Hearing Day at the Heritage Hall of Indian Medical Association (IMA) at Lamphelpat today.

The programme was held under the theme "Changing Mindsets : Empower Yourself to Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All" .

As part of World Hearing Day observance, a walkathon was taken out from the western gate of Kangla up to the office of Health Directorate at Lamphel.

Addressing the function as chief guest, Health Director Dr Chambo Gonmei said that approximately 9.9% of India's population suffer from hearing impairment, with the prevalence significantly higher among individuals aged 60 and above.

Hearing care call rung out on World Hearing Day

Saying that noise pollution is one of the biggest contributors to the rising cases of hearing loss worldwide, he added that the increasing use of loudspeakers, modified silencers, and loud horns generate excessive noise that can damage 'our hearing' .

He advised all to not expose children to loud sound whenever possible.

Frequent use of earphones also harms the ears, the Health Director said, urging everyone to consult doctors if they suspect any hearing problem.

State Nodal Officer of NPPCD Dr Vivekson Mutum, on the other hand, cautioned that inserting objects like matchsticks to scratch inside the ears is extremely harmful.

Even inserting earbuds is not advisable, he added.

He said that the inner portion of the ear is extremely delicate and inserting objects to scratch can cause permanent damage.

Dr Th Sudhiranjan, an otorhinolaryngologist at RIMS, recommended minimizing the use of earphones and mobile phones as much as possible.

Saying that the prevalence of hearing loss is high globally, he advised the people to consult doctors as soon as possible if they suspect hearing problems.

Family Welfare Director Dr N Hemantakumar and Special Grade Doctor of Manipur Health Services Dr N Bino also attended the programme among others.