Clinical Examination of Throat And Neck
March 23, 2025
Global Call for Hearing Health And WHO Decision
March 23, 2025Clinical Examination of Throat And Neck
March 23, 2025Global Call for Hearing Health And WHO Decision
March 23, 2025Dr Akbar Abbas talk on Types of Hearing Loss
World Hearing Day 2025: Hearing Health for All – A Message from Dr. Akbar Abbas
Assalamualaikum dear readers,
Every year on March 3, the world observes World Hearing Day to raise awareness about hearing health. This year, the global theme for World Hearing Day 2025 is “Hearing Health for All.”
But why is hearing health emphasized for everyone?
Hearing is one of the very first senses a human being acquires, even before birth. A developing baby, as early as 4 to 5 months in the womb, can hear sounds from the outside world. This means hearing is a fundamental sense that plays a critical role from the earliest stages of life and continues to do so throughout our lifetime.
The Connection Between Hearing and Speech Development
Children born with hearing impairments often face challenges in developing proper speech. There’s a common saying in audiology: “If you can hear, you can speak.” Early detection and intervention are vital to help these children live a healthy and socially integrated life.
The Importance of Early Screening
To diagnose hearing loss at birth, we have an effective tool known as the Newborn Hearing Screening Test (Neonatal Hearing Screening). This simple test is typically performed within the first two to three days after birth. It helps identify if the child has hearing loss in one or both ears.
If the screening suggests hearing loss, a follow-up test such as BERA (Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry) is performed when the child is around 3 to 6 months old. Other advanced diagnostic tests like ASSR (Auditory Steady-State Response) and Behavioral Audiometry can also be conducted as the child grows older.
Tailored Treatments Based on Hearing Loss Severity
Once hearing loss is confirmed, it is essential to determine its severity:
- Mild to Moderate Hearing Loss: Typically managed with hearing aids combined with speech therapy, allowing the child to integrate into mainstream schooling and daily life.
- Severe to Profound Hearing Loss (85 dB and above): In these cases, hearing aids may not be effective. The recommended solution is a Cochlear Implant, a specialized device that can significantly enhance hearing and language development.
Importantly, even with cochlear implants, speech therapy remains a crucial component of the child’s rehabilitation process.
What’s Next?
In my next talk, we will dive deeper into Cochlear Implants — how they work and how they can benefit both children and adults with profound hearing loss.
Thank you for reading, and let’s continue to spread awareness about hearing health!
