Limit screen time, reduce gaming volume to prevent hearing loss in kids: Health Ministry

Limiting screen exposure and reducing gaming volume is essential to prevent hearing loss in children, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare emphasized on World Hearing Day, observed on Monday.

World Hearing Day is marked annually on March 3 to raise awareness about preventing deafness and hearing loss and to advocate for ear and hearing care globally. This year's theme is "Changing mindsets: Empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all."

The Ministry highlighted that children are particularly vulnerable to hearing loss due to excessive screen time and exposure to loud sounds from online games.

“#WorldHearingDay2025 | Children are more vulnerable to hearing damage caused by loud sounds, gaming, and excessive screen time,” the Ministry posted on social media platform X.

Advising parents to limit children's exposure to these risks, the Ministry also recommended regular hearing checkups and safe listening habits.

“Parents, take note. Children are at higher risk of hearing damage from gaming and loud sounds. Limit their screen time and gaming volume,” the Ministry stated in an infographic. “Protect them from hearing loss by encouraging safe listening habits and ensuring regular hearing checkups,” it added.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a person is considered to have hearing loss if they cannot hear as well as someone with normal hearing.

While hearing loss can affect anyone, the risk is higher among:

• The elderly, particularly those over 60
• People who frequently listen to loud music using headphones
• Those working in noisy environments
• Regular attendees of concerts or sports events
• Individuals taking medications that may damage hearing
• People with recurring ear infections

Meanwhile, Saima Wazed, Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia, noted that hearing loss is a growing public health concern, warning that 660 million people in the South-East Asia Region could be affected by 2050 if preventive measures are not implemented.

“Over 1.5 billion people globally experience hearing loss, with nearly 80% living in low- and middle-income countries,” Wazed stated. “In the South-East Asia Region alone, an estimated 400 million people are affected—a number that could rise to 660 million by 2050 if current trends continue.”

The Regional Director emphasized that hearing problems are preventable with effective and cost-efficient interventions, such as hearing screenings and access to hearing aid services.

She also praised India for conducting “field-testing of training on assistive products hearing modules.” However, she stressed that over 80% of global ear and hearing care needs remain unmet, calling for urgent action to bridge this gap.

Wazed urged governments to prioritize ear and hearing care, challenge stigma, and take proactive measures, noting that if left unaddressed, hearing loss could impact language development, education, employment, and mental health.

(With IANS Inputs)