Rose Mabiza

13-03-2024

World Hearing Day 2025

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Changing mindsets: Empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all

World Hearing Day is observed annually on 3rd March to raise awareness about ear and hearing care. The 2025 campaign emphasises the importance of challenging misconceptions, prioritising hearing health, and supporting inclusive solutions for individuals with hearing loss. By promoting regular check-ups, safe listening habits, and accessible hearing interventions, we can create a more informed and supportive society where everyone has the opportunity to communicate and thrive. This year’s campaign calls for collective action to break down barriers and empower individuals to make hearing care a reality for all.

Understanding World Hearing Day

World Hearing Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about hearing health and advocate for policies and practices that promote ear and hearing care. Here's how different organisations contribute to this global effort:

• World Health Organisation (WHO) - As the leading global health authority, WHO spearheads coordinating World Hearing Day activities worldwide. It provides valuable resources, guidelines, and advocacy materials to support countries in their efforts to raise awareness about hearing health.
• Action on Hearing Loss (UK), The Mandatory Training Group, and Other Charities - Organisations like Action on Hearing Loss, The Mandatory Training Group, and the British Tinnitus Association (BTA) play crucial roles in the UK, supporting individuals with hearing loss and raising awareness about hearing health issues. They provide resources, support services, and advocacy efforts to promote better access to hearing healthcare services.
• National Health Service (NHS) - In the UK, the NHS offers vital support for individuals with hearing loss through various services and initiatives. They often participate in World Hearing Day activities by providing free or discounted hearing screenings and distributing educational materials to the public.

Key facts and statistics

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO) (2024), approximately 430 million people worldwide experience disabling hearing loss, and this number is projected to exceed 700 million by 2050.
• Hearing loss affects individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly, and can result from various factors, including genetic predisposition, exposure to loud noise, infections, and ageing (CDC 2024).
• Despite its widespread impact, hearing loss often goes untreated. The WHO estimates that over 1.5 billion people worldwide live with some degree of hearing loss, yet only a fraction of those who could benefit from hearing aids or other assistive devices use them (WHO, 2024).

Recommendations

• Prioritise your hearing health - Regular hearing check-ups can help detect issues early and prevent further deterioration. Schedule a screening with a healthcare provider or an accredited hearing specialist for a comprehensive assessment.
• Protect your ears - Minimise exposure to loud noises and use ear protection when necessary, especially in high-risk environments such as concerts, construction sites, or when using power tools.
• Raise awareness - Educate others about the importance of hearing health by sharing information with friends, family, and the wider community. Spreading awareness can encourage more people to take proactive steps toward better hearing care.

Conclusion

Hearing health is crucial to overall well-being, and raising awareness can drive meaningful change. By coming together as a global community, we can advocate for better access to hearing care and support those affected. Encouraging early detection, promoting protective measures, and sharing knowledge can help ensure that everyone has the resources they need to maintain healthy hearing.

Join the movement - Support hearing loss awareness

At The Mandatory Training Group, we are dedicated to promoting hearing health through ComplyPlus™, our comprehensive compliance and training management system. ComplyPlus™ empowers organisations with the tools to raise awareness, implement early detection initiatives, and ensure access to essential hearing health resources. By integrating compliance-driven training, risk assessments, and best practices, we help organisations protect their workforce from occupational hearing hazards. Together, as a global community, we can take proactive steps to safeguard hearing, support those affected, and create safer, healthier workplaces.

Last updated on 03-03-2025