100 students undergo hearing examinations in Ongole

The ENT Department at Government General Hospital (GGH), Ongole, organised a medical screening camp to create awareness on hearing health among students on the occasion of World Hearing Day, at Bandlamitta Girls High School on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, GGH Superintendent Dr. S. Manikya Rao emphasised that nearly 90 per cent of hearing problems can be prevented or effectively managed if identified at an early age and treated appropriately. He advised that individuals should avoid self-medication or home remedies for ear-related issues and must seek timely medical consultation.

He further stated that creating awareness among students at an early stage would help in spreading knowledge about hearing health across the community.

The medical camp was inaugurated by the Superintendent. During the camp, close to 100 students underwent hearing examinations. The Head of the ENT Department, Dr. Prabhakara Rao informed that awareness and screening programmes were being conducted from the community level to the school level as part of World Hearing Day initiatives.

Dr. Manikya Rao thanked the District Educational Officer for granting permission to conduct the camp. Subject to necessary approvals from authorities, GGH is willing to adopt Bandlamitta School to provide continued medical support and health awareness programmes, he added.

During an interactive session with students, doctors explained that the ear has a natural self-cleaning mechanism and advised against inserting objects such as ear buds or cotton swabs into the ear canal. They also stressed the importance of early detection of congenital hearing loss and urged parents to consult doctors immediately if hearing issues were suspected.

Students were encouraged to show empathy and support towards individuals using hearing aids and to promote an inclusive environment.