As a parent, we all get our child tested for eyesight. But how many times do we get our children tested for hearing loss? Logically, it is an equally sensitive issue. That is why understanding the issue and getting everyone tested is quite crucial in life. It is very important to be aware of hearing loss and reasons behind it. In addition, it is equally important to understand the solutions there exist for hearing loss. Exactly why Brett Lee, Cochlear India’s Global Hearing Ambassador, was present in Delhi on 23rd March, to speak about Kanso™, the smartest, most discreet innovation in the field of cochlear implants to date. Cochlear India, as we all know, is the pioneer in the field of Cochlear Implants. They are global leaders in providing solutions for hearing impairment.
At the event, the ENT department of India’s premium medical institute AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) joined Brett Lee and Cochlear India to highlight the considerable functional, social, emotional, psychological, and economic impact of hearing impairment on individuals and their families. In fact, many cases of hearing loss are preventable but it doesn’t happen just because of lack of awareness. Awareness brings a right action at right time and in turn, the prevention or cure of hearing loss. More than 300 million people across the globe suffer from hearing loss. In India itself, there are over 50 lakh cases suffering from some form of hearing loss. On the global front, around 5 percent of people around the world face disablement due to hearing loss. These and more shocking figures are strong enough to encourage us to become aware of the advanced treatment options that are now available due to advancement in technology and medicine.
Speaking at the briefing Brett Lee said, “Today, hearing loss has become a huge global public health issue. I wish to use this platform to say that everyone deserves to enjoy the sounds of everyday life. I want to help make sure, that anyone who is living in this world can experience the sounds of joy, to hear the voices of loved ones, family, and friends. Parents and family members should not ignore the smallest signs of hearing loss and should take speedy action. I have personally witnessed how a cochlear implant takes a person from silence to sound. It is a life changing moment. Many developed countries including Australia conduct hearing screening for every newborn. I would urge every parent to get their newborn screened for hearing at birth.” Want to hear more from Brett? Here is Brett’s video conveying his message.
Cochlear India
Raising concern about the lack of awareness, Prof. S C Sharma, Head of Department, ENT, AIIMS, says, “Hearing impairment is the second most common cause of disability after locomotor disability. Around 27,000 plus children are born with hearing loss in India every year. This significantly hampers the child’s education, career, and entire life. The hearing is often neglected since it cannot be easily recognizable to parents during infancy. It is important to educate the masses that hearing loss can be combated through early identification and appropriate intervention. We also need to sensitize expectant parents, families, and physicians to screen every newborn for hearing.”
It is quite important to understand what hearing loss is and what does a cochlear implant do. Here is a video to explain it. You must also read user experiences about Cochlear implants. Know more about Kanso™ and the wireless accessories
