A World Hearing Day Special!
Q&A Interview with Dr Amit Dias
This year World Hearing Day focuses on the theme of “Changing Mindsets: Empower Yourself.” On this occasion, we lend a patient ear to Dr Amit Dias, who helps us hear the message loud and clear: “It’s time to turn up the volume on awareness” Is and turn down the risks of hearing loss — let’s make ear care a reality for all.” Stay tuned as he shares tips on preventing hearing loss and preserving this valuable gift.
Goan Observer: Doctor, let us start by understanding the importance of World Hearing Day?
Dr Amit Dias: World Hearing Day was established by the World Health Organisation and is observed on March 3 every year in order to raise global awareness about hearing loss and promote preventive and treatment strategies. With over 1.5 billion people worldwide experiencing some degree of hearing loss, of which 430 million require rehabilitation, this observance is crucial in advocating for better ear care policies and accessibility to hearing aids and cochlear implants.
Shockingly, nearly 60% of childhood hearing loss is preventable. Hearing loss also has a massive economic burden, costing the global economy an estimated $980 billion annually. I have a close relative who is hearing impaired and I know what a difference it would have made to his life if this was prevented.
Q: What causes hearing loss?
A: Hearing loss can result from multiple factors, including:
Genetic predisposition – Some individuals inherit conditions that lead to hearing impairment.
Aging (Presbycusis) – Natural degeneration of auditory cells over time.
Exposure to loud noise – Prolonged exposure to sounds over 85 decibels can damage the inner ear.
Infections and diseases – Conditions like otitis media, meningitis, and mumps can cause hearing loss.
Ototoxic medications – Certain drugs, including chemotherapy agents (for cancer) and some antibiotics (for infections), can impair hearing.
Injury and trauma – Head injuries can damage the auditory system.
Unmanaged earwax build-up – Can cause temporary hearing impairment.
Q: Yes, earwax is very common… why does it occur and how to treat earwax buildup?
A: Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance that protects the ear canal. However, excessive buildup can cause hearing difficulties. Treatment includes:
Ear drops – softening agents, resist the urge to put unsafe items in the ear.
Irrigation – a gentle rinse with warm water.
Professional removal – an ENT specialist can safely extract wax if home remedies do not work.
Q: Are some people at a higher risk of developing hearing loss?
A: Yes there are some who are more vulnerable.
Older Adults (age-related hearing Loss – Presbycusis)
People above 60 years are at a higher risk due to natural aging-related degeneration of the inner ear. Age-related hearing loss is progressive and often affects high-frequency sounds first.
People Exposed to loud noise (noise-induced hearing loss — NIHL).
Workers in construction, manufacturing, military and loud noises.
People using earphones at high volume for prolonged periods.
Those attending loud concerts or events frequently.
Many famous musicians, such as Beethoven and more recently, Brian Johnson of AC/DC, suffered hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds.
Individuals with certain medical conditions:
Diabetes (due to blood vessel damage affecting the inner ear).
Hypertension (linked to reduced blood supply to the ear).
Chronic kidney disease (because the kidneys and ears share similar structural and functional mechanisms).
Autoimmune diseases (eg, lupus) that can affect hearing.
Meningitis, mumps, measles, or rubella infections can cause hearing damage.
People Using Ototoxic Medications
Certain antibiotics (aminoglycosides like gentamicin).
Chemotherapy drugs (cisplatin, carboplatin).
Loop diuretics (furosemide, bumetanide).
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin in high doses.
Infants and young Children
Premature babies (especially those in neonatal ICUs with high noise exposure).
Babies with jaundice or low birth weight.
Children with frequent ear infections (otitis media).
Genetic predisposition to hearing loss.
Smokers and passive smokers. Smoking reduces oxygen supply to the inner ear, increasing the risk of hearing loss.
People with frequent ear infections or ear trauma
Chronic ear infections can damage the eardrum and inner ear structures.
Head trauma or repeated exposure to high-impact sports injuries (eg, boxing, football) can lead to hearing issues.
People who swim frequently (swimmer’s ear — otitis externa)
Q: When should parents suspect hearing loss in children?
A: Parents should be vigilant for the following signs:
Lack of response to sounds or voices by 6 months.
Delay in speech and language development.
Frequent need to increase TV or device volume.
Not reacting to their name being called.
Difficulty following conversations or instructions in noisy environments.
Children with untreated ear infections – Chronic ear infections can lead to permanent hearing loss if not managed appropriately.
Q: You had once mentioned about its association with dementia… how are the two related?
A: Yes in our research published in the Lancet, we found that hearing loss is one of the major risk factor for dementia. Studies indicate that even mild hearing loss doubles the risk of dementia, while severe hearing loss increases it fivefold. Hearing impairment leads to cognitive decline due to reduced brain stimulation, social isolation, and depression.
Q: What are the newer methods for correcting hearing loss?
A: Advances in hearing technology have significantly improved treatment outcomes:
Cochlear implants – These electronic devices bypass damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve, helping those with severe hearing loss.
Advanced digital hearing aids – Modern hearing aids use AI and noise-canceling technology to enhance sound clarity.
Bone-anchored hearing systems – Used for conductive hearing loss, these implants directly stimulate the inner ear through bone conduction.
Gene therapy and regenerative medicine – Future research aims to regenerate damaged hair cells in the cochlea.
Q: What needs to be done about hearing loss?
A: A lot can be done. It needs a multi-sectoral approach:
Spread positive messages as you are doing through your newspaper. Create public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage screenings.
Incorporation of hearing care into primary healthcare services and the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
Accessibility to affordable hearing aids and implants, which by the way is provided free of cost at the Goa Medical College.
Inclusion of hearing health in educational curricula.
Investment in research and technology for better hearing solutions.
Q. What is the authority doing to prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?
A: Authorities at the global, national, and local levels have implemented several measures to prevent noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). These include legislation, workplace safety regulations, and community initiatives aimed at reducing exposure to excessive noise.
The Supreme Court of India has enforced a ban on loudspeakers and music after 10 PM in various states, including Goa, to curb noise pollution from parties, religious events, and social gatherings.
Workplace Safety Measures:
Mandatory Use of Ear Protection: Factories and industries with high noise levels must provide earplugs, earmuffs, or noise-canceling headsets to workers under the Factories Act, 1948. they also ensure regular auditory screening for their employees working in noisy environments.
Creation of Green and Silent Zones: Many urban areas now include designated Silent Zones near hospitals, schools, and religious institutions, where honking and loudspeakers are prohibited.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and Government of India conduct campaigns on the dangers of loud noise and ways to protect hearing, especially among youth frequently using headphones at high volumes.
Q: Can you throw more light on this year’s theme?
A:The theme is: “Changing Mindsets: Empower Yourself to Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All.” This theme encourages individuals and policymakers to prioritize hearing health and integrate hearing care into universal health coverage.
Hearing connects us to the world, enables communication, enriches experiences, and safeguards mental health. Losing this ability impacts quality of life, so it must be protected.
Many individuals with hearing loss have thrived—scientists, musicians, athletes, and leaders have proved that success is limitless. Helen Keller, who was both deaf and blind, famously said:
“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.”
Q: Helen Keller was truly inspirational …. to conclude, what is your message to our readers on World Hearing Day?
A: Yes, Helen Keller was truly a role model and an inspiration for many. She was born with full hearing and sight in 1880, but became deaf and blind at 19 months old, probably due to meningitis or scarlet fever. She grew up to be an author and activist and the first person with deaf blindness to earn a college degree. With the right support, technology, and mindset, every individual with hearing impairment can lead a fulfilling, meaningful, and beautiful life!
The problem is that people often do not have access to the right support and assistive technology in time and have to suffer with their cries falling on deaf ears. Hearing Day is to remind everyone to change our mindsets and make everyone hear.
Hearing loss is preventable and manageable. Protect your hearing, undergo regular check-ups, and support initiatives that make hearing care a reality for all.
