Hearing health in the spotlight

World Hearing Day: Emphasising the Importance of hearing health
    - 2023-02-23 11:21:00
On 3 March, the World Health Organisation (WHO) celebrates World Hearing Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the importance of hearing health and the prevention of deafness and hearing loss.
Hearing loss is a growing public health issue, affecting more than 5% of the world's population, according to the WHO. It can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life and lead to social isolation, depression, and reduced participation in work and leisure activities.
To mark World Hearing Day, the Ear Institute, with branches throughout South Africa and Namibia, is calling on individuals to take simple steps to protect their hearing health, including avoiding exposure to loud noise, seeking medical attention for hearing problems, and wearing ear protection when necessary.
The WHO also promotes the use of hearing aids and cochlear implants, which can improve the lives of people with hearing loss.
In addition to protecting hearing health, early detection and intervention can help prevent more serious health problems, such as dementia and falls.
“It's never too early or too late to start looking after your hearing health,” says Nico van der Merwe, founder of the Ear Institute. “By taking simple steps and seeking medical attention when necessary, individuals can maintain their hearing and reduce the risk of related health problems.”
In support of the WHO’s World Hearing Day, the Ear Institute encourages individuals, governments, and organisations to take action to raise awareness about the importance of hearing health and the prevention of deafness and hearing loss.
World Hearing Day is an opportunity to bring attention to this important issue and encourage individuals to take control of their hearing health.