Excessive use of headphones not advisable, say ENT Experts, launch awareness drive to mark World Hearing Day

Aurangabad, March 2: Noise pollution, excessive use of headphones, sometimes accidental illness or congenital malformations are the major causes of deafness. If there is no sound in the ears, communication is not possible and the life of the person becomes difficult. On the occasion of the World Hearing Day being celebrated on March 3, the Association of ENT Surgeons, Aurangabad will implement an awareness drive on deafness and related treatments, said association president Dr Shrikant Saoji here yesterday.

The aim of the drive is to prevent deafness and hearing loss as well as raise awareness about how to take ear and hearing care. The World Health Organisation has set Hearing Care for All is the theme of this year's celebrations, Dr.Saoji said.

Secretary Dr Riteish Bhagyawant said, no public events will be held due to Covid pandemic. Awareness will be spread through social media. To increase the prevalence of deafness treatment, free surgery will be provided to the most needy patients and low cost surgery to some patients.

Surgeries like cochlear implants, which are a boon for deaf children, have been started by many ENT specialists in various hospitals in Aurangabad. This surgery was done free of cost on three needy patients and its expenses will also be covered under Mahatma Phule health insurance scheme, said Dr Bhagyawant.

Vice-president Dr Vijay Vithore, joint secretary Dr Sambhaji Chintale, treasurer Dr Atul Pore, Dr Sachin Nagare, Dr Sameer Deshmukh, Dr Jitendra Rathore, Dr Mahendra Katare, Dr Sneha Dongardive were present.

Sounds above 80 decibels harmful

Extreme care must be taken to prevent hearing loss. Today's young generation uses headphones excessively, and listens to loud music. Loudness of more than 80 decibels can cause hearing loss.