**Bhopal**: Dr. Amit Ganguli highlights the concerning increase of hearing impairment among children aged 0 to 14, emphasising early intervention and the importance of cochlear implants, while addressing the financial challenges families face in accessing treatment and debunking common misconceptions regarding ear care.
Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Dr. Amit Ganguli, a prominent ENT expert, has outlined the alarming rise of hearing loss, particularly among children aged 0 to 14 years, identifying it as the most prevalent sensory deficit in today’s society. During an exclusive interview with the Free Press Journal, Dr. Ganguli discussed various aspects related to ear, nose, and throat health, notably the increasing incidence of hearing impairment among younger populations and emphasised the importance of early intervention.
Dr. Ganguli elaborated on the various conditions impacting auditory health, including sinusitis and tonsillitis, which are particularly common during colder months. Sinusitis, defined as the inflammation of the tissue lining the sinuses, can arise from bacterial or viral infections as well as allergies, resulting in blocked sinuses that accumulate fluid. Medical treatment is often critical, and in severe cases, surgical procedures might be necessary.
Tonsillitis, another condition frequently seen in children, is caused mainly by viral infections but can evolve into bacterial infections, leading to pus formation. Symptoms typically include swollen tonsils, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. Dr. Ganguli noted that while the historical approach to recurring tonsillitis often involved the surgical removal of tonsils, this is now reserved for cases that are either recurrent or not responsive to other treatments.
A significant part of Dr. Ganguli’s discourse focused on the increasing worry associated with hearing loss in children. He pointed out that cochlear implants, which are surgically placed devices, offer the most effective solution for severe hearing loss. These implants work to restore hearing capabilities, especially beneficial when intervention occurs upon early diagnosis, such as in newborns. The timely use of cochlear implants allows for the normal development of language skills, making early detection crucial.
Dr. Ganguli mentioned testing methods like the Otoacoustic Emission (OAE) test that are employed to screen infants for potential hearing issues. However, the substantial costs associated with cochlear implants, ranging between ₹8.5 lakh to ₹12 lakh, pose a financial challenge for many families. The Ayushman Bharat scheme currently provides coverage of up to ₹5 lakh, which may not suffice for comprehensive treatment. In response to this concern, Dr. Ganguli highlighted that financial assistance is available through the Union government’s ADIP (Assistance to Persons with Disabilities) scheme. This programme offers grants aimed at supporting the acquisition of assistive devices, including cochlear implants, thereby enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Deafness assists eligible individuals with implant costs.
Addressing common misconceptions, Dr. Ganguli cautioned against the practice of using mustard oil in infants’ ears, stating that it is not advisable due to the risk of fungal infections and ineffectiveness in dissolving earwax. Instead, he advocated for the use of carbonic solvents or ear drops specifically formulated for ear health.
In summary, Dr. Ganguli’s insights illuminate the critical intersections between early intervention, access to treatment, and the overall health outcomes for those experiencing hearing loss, particularly children. His recommendations and observations underscore the need for targeted measures to improve access to vital auditory health solutions.
Source: Noah Wire Services
