Mangaluru: Yenepoya Medical College Hospital observed World Hearing Day 2026 with an awareness programme organised by the Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) in collaboration with the Department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology.
The event was held at the hospital premises with the aim of creating public awareness about hearing health, early identification of hearing loss and available treatment options.
Importance of early detection emphasised
The programme was chaired by Dr K. S. Gangadhara Somayaji, Vice Chancellor of Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) and Professor in the Department of ENT.
In his address, he highlighted the importance of hearing in effective communication and overall quality of life. He explained common causes of hearing loss, methods of hearing assessment and the available treatment options.
Dr Somayaji also emphasised the importance of early identification and intervention, particularly cochlear implantation for children with congenital bilateral profound hearing loss before the age of two, which can significantly improve speech and language development.
He further mentioned the SAST scheme of the Government of Karnataka, which provides free cochlear implant surgery and auditory verbal therapy for eligible candidates. Yenepoya Medical College Hospital has been empanelled under this scheme.
Awareness talks for students and public
An awareness session was delivered by Dr Vikram, a postgraduate student from the Department of ENT, and Ms Shahza, a third-year student of B.ASLP.
The speakers highlighted the importance of protecting hearing, the causes of hearing impairment and the impact of hearing loss on children’s academic performance and social development.
They encouraged the public to undergo early screening and seek timely medical intervention for hearing-related issues.
Dignitaries present at the programme
The programme was attended by several dignitaries including Dr Abhay Nirgude, Dean of Academics; Dr Moosabba, Principal of Yenepoya Medical College; Dr Prakash Saldanha, Vice Principal; Dr Habib Rahiman, Medical Superintendent of the hospital; and Dr Sai Manohar, Head of the Department of ENT.
Also present were Dr Vijayalakshmi, Professor in the ENT Department; Mr Sabith, Deputy Hospital Operation Officer; Ms Shana Mariyam Basheer, Assistant Professor in the Department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology; along with faculty members and students of both departments.
Promoting awareness on hearing health
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms Shadaf Nisha, Clinical Supervisor in the Department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology.
She expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, faculty members, students, media and participants for their support in making the programme successful.
The observance of World Hearing Day served as an important platform to promote awareness about hearing care and highlight the importance of early detection and management of hearing loss within the community.