Each year, the period from September 21 to 27 is observed as World Deaf Week, with the last Sunday of that week designated as World Deaf Day. This time, the Association of Otolaryngologists of India (AOI), Kolkata, is spearheading efforts to raise awareness regarding hearing loss, including its early detection, prevention, and prompt treatment.

Hearing plays a crucial role in communication, education, career advancement, and involvement in social activities. Dr. Utpal Jana, Immediate Past President of AOI, West Bengal, said, “Hearing loss is often silent and invisible, but its consequences are profound. Detecting issues early, particularly in children, can profoundly alter the trajectory of a person’s life. However, in reality, hearing loss frequently goes undetected or unaddressed, especially in children”.

“Early detection can make a life-changing difference”, said Dr. Dwaipayan Mukherjee, Immediate National Past President of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India (AOI). Dr. Mukherjee emphasizes that hearing assessment at birth and during early childhood is crucial, as untreated hearing loss can negatively impact speech, language, and academic development. In adults and older individuals, prompt assessment can help avoid communication problems, social isolation, and a decline in quality of life.

Speaking on behalf of AOI West Bengal, the doctors urged parents not to overlook symptoms like a child not reacting to sound, delayed speech, repeatedly asking for things to be repeated, or turning up the TV volume. Likewise, adults who struggle to hear conversations, particularly in noisy environments, should consult an ENT specialist instead of viewing hearing loss as a typical consequence of aging.

AOI arranged a full-day event for World Deaf Week at the IMA Building in Chandannagar, Hooghly. The programme started with a ‘Walk for the Deaf’ and then proceeded with honoring socially recognized deaf individuals, distributing hearing aids, and featuring presentations by deaf students.

Priyanka Dutta