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“Listening for Change: The Need for Ear Health Awareness in Labasa”

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Many individuals overlook the importance of ear care, according to Nasif Mohammed, an audiometrist from Hearing Aid Services (HAS) based in Australia. During a recent two-day screening at My Lab Pte Limited in Labasa Town, he attended to 40 patients, ranging from a four-year-old to an 80-year-old.

Mr. Mohammed highlighted that many of the patients suffered from various ear issues, including perforated eardrums, infections, blocked ear canals due to wax buildup, scar tissue, and ear discharge that had not been properly managed.

He observed that there is currently a lack of audiometric services in the Northern region of Fiji, forcing patients who require medical advice to travel all the way to Suva. He expressed a desire for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services to consider sending an Ear Nose Throat (ENT) specialist to Labasa at least once a month to provide essential assistance to the local population.

An emotional moment arose when a female patient with hearing impairment received treatment, and tears of joy filled her eyes as she was finally able to hear voices again with the help of a hearing aid. He also worked with students at the Labasa School for Special Education, many of whom require urgent medical attention and hearing aids.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Mohammed had conducted similar screenings organized by the Lions Club Labasa, and he expressed hope that more could be done for children in need of treatment. His vision includes raising funds to send children overseas for necessary medical care, akin to other organized medical trips.

“The ear is an essential organ, and imagine living without the ability to hear or communicate effectively. My return to Labasa after so many years has made it clear that there is a pressing need for increased awareness of ear health,” he noted.

This outreach initiative underscores the critical need for ear health awareness and services, especially in underserved areas. The positive outcomes from Mr. Mohammed’s work highlight the importance of supporting initiatives that provide medical care to those in need, ultimately contributing to improved quality of life for many individuals.

In summary, this article emphasizes the vital need for ear care awareness and services in Labasa and the impact of audiometric assistance on patients’ lives.


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