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Hearing Health Crisis: Are We Ignoring Our Ears?

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Many people are unaware of the significance of ear care, according to audiometrist Nasif Mohammed from Hearing Aid Services in Australia. During a recent two-day screening session at My Lab Pte Limited in Labasa Town, he assessed 40 patients ranging from a four-year-old child to an 80-year-old adult.

Mr. Mohammed observed a pattern of ear mismanagement among the patients. Common issues included perforated eardrums, ear infections, blocked ear canals due to wax buildup, and scar tissue. Some patients also experienced ear discharge but lacked the knowledge to manage their conditions effectively.

He expressed concern over the absence of an audiometrist in the northern region, forcing patients to travel to Suva for medical advice. Mr. Mohammed hopes that the Ministry of Health and Medical Services will facilitate the visit of an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist to Labasa on a monthly basis to provide much-needed assistance to local patients.

One poignant moment during his visit involved a female patient who had been struggling with hearing impairment. After receiving treatment and a hearing aid, she was filled with tears of joy at the newfound ability to hear, highlighting the profound impact such services can have on individuals’ lives.

Mr. Mohammed also encountered students from the Labasa School for Special Education, some of whom were in urgent need of medical attention and hearing aids. He noted that he had provided similar services before the pandemic and expressed a desire to generate more support, particularly for children, by organizing fundraising efforts for overseas treatment when necessary.

Emphasizing the importance of hearing in communication, he stated, “Imagine living a life without the ability to hear.” His return to Labasa after several years has only amplified his conviction that greater awareness about ear health is essential for the community.

This event serves as a reminder of the critical need for increased access to audiology services and the life-changing impact they can have on individuals, particularly children who face communication challenges. With proper care and awareness, there is hope for a brighter future and improved quality of life for those affected by hearing issues.


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