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Hearing Health Crisis in Labasa: Are We Listening?

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Many people overlook the importance of ear health, according to Nasif Mohammed, an audiometrist from Hearing Aid Services in Australia. Recently, during a two-day screening event at My Lab Pte Limited in Labasa Town, he assisted 40 patients, ranging from a four-year-old child to an 80-year-old adult.

Mohammed pointed out that numerous patients suffered from various ear-related issues, including perforated eardrums, ear infections, blocked ear canals due to wax buildup, scar tissue, and persistent ear discharge. Unfortunately, he noted that there is currently no audiometrist based in the northern region, forcing patients to travel as far as Suva to seek care.

He expressed hope that the Ministry of Health and Medical Services could provide a regular visit from an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist to Labasa, facilitating access to essential medical advice and treatment. One poignant moment during the screening was when a female patient, initially disheartened due to her hearing impairment, experienced the joy of hearing again after receiving a hearing aid. His emotional response highlighted the profound impact that improved hearing can have on individuals’ lives.

Additionally, Mohammed observed several students from the Labasa School for Special Education who also required urgent medical attention and hearing aids. He reminisced about similar services he participated in prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, organized by the Lions Club Labasa, and stressed the importance of ongoing support for children needing medical assistance.

He passionately asserted that living without the ability to hear significantly hampers individuals’ ability to communicate and lead fulfilling lives. Upon returning to Labasa after many years, he emphasized the need for increased awareness around ear health and treatment options.

This call to action not only highlights the critical nature of auditory health but also shines a light on the collective responsibility to help those in need, especially children facing these challenges. With greater awareness and collaboration, there is hope for enhancing the quality of life for individuals suffering from hearing impairments.


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