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World Hearing Day is an annual advocacy event which aims to raise awareness, as well as promote ear care across the world. The theme for this year’s World Hearing Day is childhood hearing loss.

There are 32 million children worldwide who have a disabling level of hearing loss. Public health measures can effectively reduce hearing loss. The majority of cases can be treated through early diagnosis and proven interventions.

For children, hearing is key to learning spoken language, performing academically, and engaging socially. Hearing loss poses a barrier to education and social integration. As such, children can benefit greatly from their hearing loss being identified early in life and being offered appropriate interventions.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 60% of childhood hearing loss could be avoided through preventative measures. When the hearing loss is unavoidable, certain measures are needed to ensure that children reach their full potential through rehabilitation, education and empowerment. Action is needed on both fronts.

National Hearing Day

Excessive noise has become the most compensated occupational hazard. Exposure to environmental noise has been linked to adverse health effects in the European region. Exposure to excessive noise is a major (and avoidable) cause of permanent hearing loss worldwide. Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is completely preventable through improved awareness, as well as the use of appropriate ear protection. For those exposed to loud noise, something as simple as custom made earplugs can be the difference between hearing normally and exposing yourself to potentially deafening consequences. Ear Protection

Another entirely avoidable cause of hearing loss is ear infections. In some settings, the prevalence of chronic ear infections may be as high as 46%. Ear infections are usually accompanied by discharge from the ear. This can lead to hearing loss and may cause life-threatening complications, such as meningitis and brain abscesses. A significant contributor and cause of ear infections is improper protection of ears when exposed to water, i.e. swimming pools. This is so easily avoided by simply using earplugs to prevent water, and subsequently bacteria, from entering the ear.
Swim Protection

If you have any concerns about your hearing, or the hearing of a loved one, then please get in touch. One of our fully qualified audiologists will be happy to talk about your concerns and answer any questions you may have. Hearing Healthcare Centre work closely within their community in order to raise awareness

For more information or to ask us a question, please do not hesitate to get in touch either by phone or by email.

Tel: 01223 360700 E-mail: welcome@hearinghealthcarecentre.co.uk