The Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Nurses Association in Sekondi-Takoradi has intensified public education and screening exercises to promote proper ear care and prevent hearing loss as part of activities marking this year’s World Hearing Day.
As part of the initiative, the association embarked on hearing screening exercises in several schools within the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis to detect hearing challenges among children and raise awareness on the importance of early treatment.
A total of 2,070 pupils were screened during the exercise, with 834 referred for further medical assessment and treatment after showing signs of possible hearing-related conditions.
Health professionals say hearing impairment remains a growing public health concern in Ghana, particularly among children, making early detection and continuous public education critical.
ENT Nurse Specialist at the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital, Judith Ageiwaa Donkor noted that many hearing-related conditions can be prevented or treated when detected early.
“Going forward, if we are able to secure financial support from corporate organisations, we will be able to reach a larger number of children in schools across the region with our screening and awareness programmes. We are therefore appealing to corporate organisations to support this initiative,” she urged.
In recognition of the role of the media in promoting health education, the ENT Nurses Association singled out Empire FM and Radio 360, that form the EIB Network’s Western Regional cluster, for its continuous support of its awareness campaigns.
“Radio 360 and Empire FM have been our backbone when it comes to public health education, especially during World Hearing Day. You have consistently supported us by giving us the platform to educate the public, and we are grateful for the continuous support,” she said.
Programmes Manager for Radio 360, Kwame Malcolm, who spoke on behalf of the Business Manager, expressed appreciation for the recognition and reaffirmed the station’s commitment to supporting public health initiatives.
“We are grateful for this recognition and ensuring a fruitful partnership by also screening our staff at our doorstep in return. It makes the ENT association one of a kind, since most health groups only look at benefits accruing to themselves without considering what they can also offer our staff. Due to our work as broadcasters, issues of ear, nose and throat health cannot be wished away and our doors are always open for future collaborations and pray others will emulate same,” he said.
The ENT Nurses Association presented plaques of recognition to the 2 stations.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Hajia Fati Karim
