26/03/2025
*Childhood Hearing Loss: Act Now, Here’s How!*
Hearing plays a crucial role in a child’s speech, language, cognitive, and social development. However, childhood hearing loss affects millions worldwide, often going undetected or untreated. If not addressed early, it can lead to delayed learning, communication difficulties, and social isolation. The World Health Organization (WHO) stresses the importance of early intervention under the theme “Childhood Hearing Loss: Act Now, Here’s How!” for World Hearing Day.
Causes of Childhood Hearing Loss
Hearing loss in children can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developing later) due to factors such as:
Genetic conditions
Birth complications, including premature birth and low birth weight
Infections like measles, meningitis, and rubella
Untreated ear infections leading to complications
Exposure to loud noise or ototoxic (ear-damaging) medications
Measures to Prevent and Manage Childhood Hearing Loss
1. Early Screening and Diagnosis
Newborn Hearing Screening: Every baby should undergo hearing screening within the first month of life.
Regular Hearing Tests: Children should be screened periodically, especially if they are at high risk.
Parental Awareness: Parents should watch for signs like delayed speech, difficulty responding to sounds, or frequently asking for repetition.
2. Timely Medical Intervention
Treat Ear Infections Promptly: Recurrent ear infections can lead to permanent damage if untreated.
Vaccination: Immunizing children against diseases like measles, rubella, and meningitis can prevent hearing loss.
Ototoxic Medication Awareness: Parents should consult doctors before giving children medications that could harm hearing.
3. Providing Assistive Devices and Therapies
Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants: Children with hearing impairments benefit from these devices, enhancing their ability to hear and communicate.
Speech Therapy: Helps children develop communication skills despite hearing challenges.
Sign Language and Visual Aids: For children with profound hearing loss, learning sign language improves interaction and learning.
4. Noise Protection
Lower Volume on Headphones: Safe listening habits should be taught early, with volume kept below 60% of maximum.
Avoid Loud Environments: Children should wear ear protection in noisy places like concerts or fireworks displays.
Awareness in Schools: Schools should ensure noise levels are safe and conduct hearing screenings for students.
5. Parental and Community Involvement
Educating Parents and Caregivers: Awareness campaigns can help parents understand the importance of early detection.
Access to Healthcare Services: Governments and NGOs must provide affordable hearing care services.
Inclusive Education: Schools should accommodate hearing-impaired children with supportive teaching strategies.
Act Now for a Better Future
By taking preventive measures, ensuring early detection, and providing timely treatment, we can minimize childhood hearing loss and enable every child to reach their full potential. Let’s act now to create a world where no child is left behind due to hearing impairment.
Dr Abhilesh Darade
ENT Specialist
NASHIK