Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 6: On the occasion of World Hearing Day, the Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) in collaboration with the Department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology, Yenepoya Medical College Hospital, observed World Hearing Day on March 4 at the hospital premises with the aim of creating awareness among the public about hearing health and early identification of hearing loss.
The programme was addressed by Dr Gangadhar Somayaji K S, vice chancellor, Yenepoya (deemed to be university) and professor, department of ENT, who chaired the event. He highlighted the importance of hearing in everyday communication and overall quality of life. In his address, he explained the need for hearing, common causes of hearing loss, methods of hearing assessment, and available management options.
He also emphasized the importance of early identification and intervention, particularly cochlear implantation for children with congenital bilateral profound hearing loss under age 2, which can significantly improve speech and language development. He also mentioned the scheme (SAST) under the Karnataka state government, which provides free cochlear implant surgery and auditory verbal therapy for the eligible candidates. Yenepoya Medical College Hospital has been empanelled for cochlear implant scheme under SAST (Govt of Karnataka).
An awareness talk was delivered by Dr Vikram, a postgraduate student in the department of ENT, and Shahza, a 3rd-year BASLP student, who spoke about the importance of protecting hearing, various causes of hearing loss, and the impact of hearing impairment on children’s academic performance and social development. The speakers encouraged the public to seek early screening and timely management for hearing-related problems.
The event was graced by several dignitaries including Dr Abhay Nirgude, dean of Academics; Dr Moosabba, principal, Yenepoya Medical College; Dr Prakash Saldanha, vice principal, Yenepoya Medical College; Dr Habib Rahiman, medical superintendent, Yenepoya Medical College Hospital; Dr Sai Manohar, head of the department, ENT; Dr Vijayalakshmi, professor, ENT department; Sabith, deputy hospital operation officer; Shana Mariyam Basheer, assistant professor, department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology; and all the faculties and students of department of ENT and department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Shadaf Nisha, clinical supervisor, Department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, faculty members, students, marketing team, media, and participants for making the event a success.
The observance of World Hearing Day served as an important platform to raise awareness of hearing care and the importance of early detection and management of hearing loss within the community.