Hearing loss is rather common in Malaysia. Based on statistics, over 17 per cent of our population have hearing problems. The figure represents some five million Malaysians.
This was revealed by Ipoh City Councillor, Leong Chee Wai, who represented state executive councillor Dato’ Dr Mah Hang Soon, during the launch of the ‘Hearing for Life Campaign’ at Aeon Midtown Falim, Ipoh on Sunday, July 9.
He added that at least three out of 1000 newborns face the possibility of having hearing loss while one out of three Malaysians, above 65, will suffer from hearing impairment upon reaching that age.
“It’s also a fact that 30 per cent of Malaysians, aged 60 and above, have hearing problems.
“If we look at the whole world, over five per cent of the world’s population (360 million) have disabling hearing loss, 328 million of them are adults, the remaining are children,” he remarked.
According to Leong the causes of hearing loss are genetic, complications during birth, infectious diseases, chronic ear infections, drugs usage, exposure to excessive noise and aging.
“Since this campaign is called ‘Hearing for Life’, it’s my hope that it’ll enable people to better understand the causes of hearing loss, how to deal with and how to overcome them. Creating awareness and improving access to services, at the primary level, can help to reduce the prevalence and impact of hearing loss,” he concluded.
The Manager of HearLIFE Centre Sdn Bhd, Eros Zeus Lomboy, then launched the ‘HearLIFE Club’ programme. It is targeted at those with hearing problems and help them connect with others similarly affected.
“Through this club, HearLIFE will update members on new services and the latest developments in hearing care in the market,” he said.
Club members can enjoy benefits such as a free hearing-test voucher worth RM150, discounts on products sold at Hearing Care Centre, and a special discount on health screening at the Perak Community Specialist Hospital.
Nabilah Hamudin
