Need more research on hearing loss: Dr Chambo
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 29 2025: Health services director Dr Chambo Gonmei has emphasised the need for more research to understand the causes of hearing loss, which is becoming a growing concern in today's world.

He was speaking at the World Hearing Day observance held under the theme "Changing Mindset: Empower Yourself to Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All", organised by the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Deafness (NPPCD), State Health Society, NHM Manipur at IMA Hall, Lamphelpat on Saturday.

Addressing the event as the chief guest, Dr Chambo Gonmei highlighted the importance of changing mindsets to seek timely treatment to prevent hearing loss.

Need more research on hearing loss: Dr Chambo

He stated that 9.9 per cent of the total population in the country suffers from hearing loss, which is a significant number and pointed out that people above 60 years of age are generally more prone to varying degrees of hearing loss.

He further noted that with the increasing global crises, unrest, and wars affecting the world, people are unable to lead happy lives, and increasing noise pollution is also contributing to hearing loss.

To address this rising trend, more research is required to identify the underlying causes, he said.

The director also stressed that chronic ear infections during childhood can lead to hearing loss, often due to parental ignorance and advised against excessive use of electronic gadgets, especially listening to loud music, which could contribute to hearing problems.

Noting that hearing loss is not a comfortable condition, he said that timely intervention in cases of infection or other factors is essential to prevent it.

Family welfare director Dr N Hemantakumar presided over the function, while MHS special grade Dr N Bino Singh and head of the RIMS Department of Otorhinolaryngology Prof Dr Th Sudhiranjan attended as guests of honour.

Hearing aids were also distributed to beneficiaries during the event.

As part of the observance, NPPCD, State Health Society, NHM, and Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission Manipur also organised a walk-athon, which was flagged off by Dr Chambo Gonmei from Kangla Western Gate.

Students of Female Health Workers Training School and officials of the health department participated in the walkathon, which culminated at the office premises of the medical directorate at Lamphelpat.