The National Program for Prevention and Control of Deafness (NPPCD), under the National Health Mission, Department of Health & Family Welfare, Kohima, Nagaland, successfully observed World Hearing Day at Chunlikha PHC on March 3rd, 2025.
The event, held under the theme “Changing Mindsets: Empower Yourself to Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All,” aimed to raise awareness about hearing health and the importance of early detection and intervention.
Dr Cheyale, MO of Chunlikha PHC, chaired the program, which began with an invocation by Pastor Haiwachu Magh of KUBC. A health talk on the National Program for Prevention and Control of Deafness was delivered by Dr Lozino, Senior Specialist, NHAK, followed by a keynote address from Dr Thomas Keppen, Deputy Director, DHFW. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Zanilo Seb, VCC of Chunlikha.
Dr Lozino provided insightful knowledge, emphasizing the critical role of early diagnosis and intervention in preventing hearing loss. She highlighted that hearing impairment is a growing public health concern and stressed the importance of routine hearing screenings, especially among children and the elderly.
She further explained that noise pollution, untreated infections, prolonged exposure to loud sounds, and lack of awareness are major contributing factors to hearing loss. Dr. Lozino urged community members to take preventive measures, such as: Avoiding excessive noise exposure; Seeking timely medical intervention for ear infections; Using protective devices like earplugs in noisy environments; and Undergoing regular hearing check-ups.
Additionally, she outlined the services provided under NPPCD, including free screenings, early intervention programs, and rehabilitation support for those with hearing impairments.
In his keynote address, Dr Thomas Keppen, Deputy Director of DHFW, emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring accessible and affordable ear and hearing care for all. He pointed out that hearing impairment not only affects an individual’s quality of life but also has social and economic implications if left untreated.
Dr Keppen stressed the need for strengthening primary healthcare facilities to offer early screening and treatment services, particularly in rural areas. He also urged stakeholders, including health workers, educators, and community leaders, to collaborate in promoting hearing health awareness.
Dr Keppen concluded by encouraging families to be proactive in identifying early signs of hearing loss and emphasized that timely intervention can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairments.
As part of the observance, a hearing screening camp was conducted, benefiting 70 patients, including 32 senior citizens. The screenings aimed to identify early signs of hearing loss and provide medical guidance for necessary interventions.
The Department of Health & Family Welfare extends its gratitude to all participants and stakeholders for making this event a success. The observance of World Hearing Day reaffirms the commitment to ensuring accessible and inclusive ear and hearing care for all.
