The World Hearing Day 2025 was observed on March 3 at Government Middle School, Samziuram Sec-A, Peren, under the global theme “Changing Mindset: Empower Yourself to Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All.”
The program was organized to raise awareness on the importance of ear and hearing care, as well as the prevention of hearing loss, with active participation from healthcare professionals and students.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Zhoveyo Vero, ENT Surgeon, highlighted the growing prevalence and impact of hearing loss worldwide. He noted that approximately 20% of the global population is affected by hearing loss—a figure expected to rise due to increasing industrialization and exposure to loud machinery. He further emphasized that nearly 50% of hearing loss cases are preventable with timely care and awareness.
Dr. Vero also shed light on hearing loss in children, informing the gathering that around 2% of children suffer from hearing impairment, which can severely affect their speech, language development, and social interactions, potentially leading to emotional distress and depression. He outlined common causes of hearing loss, signs to watch for in children, and elaborated on the “4 P’s” of hearing loss: Progressive, Painless, Permanent, and Preventable.
Following the awareness session, a free health screening was conducted for the students of the school. A total of 96 children were screened, and those identified with hearing-related issues were provided with necessary medical care and treatment.
The program was led by Dr. Zhoveyo Vero and Dr. Ihube, Medical Officer from District Hospital Peren, in collaboration with the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) team.
The event successfully empowered the local community to take proactive steps in preserving ear and hearing health through early intervention and preventive care.