Islamabad -  Perhaps for the first time in the country’s history, Pakistan Institute of Rehabilitation Sciences (PIRS) marked International Ear Care Day here in the federal capital with the theme of the event — make listening safe. The speakers throw light on various sorts of hearing impairments which could easily be avoided by taking a little care. Special children from Sultana Foundation also participated in the event with Dr Maryam Malik from World Health Organisation (WHO) as chief guest on the occasion. While Dr Iman Yar Baig, country head CBM, was guest of honour. CEO CHEF International Sohail joined the participants to highlight this noble cause.
In her keynote address Dr Malik said that as per WHO estimates around 350 million persons around the globe are facing hearing impairments of mild to severe deafness.
She said that at least half of all the cases of hearing loss could are avoidable through primary prevention, including healthy ear care practices. In order to raise awareness on this issue the International Ear Care Day is observed on March 3 every year, she explained.
She commended the role of Pakistan Institute of Rehabilitation Sciences in creating awareness among the masses to avoid hearing loss and informed the participants that WHO would be launching extensive programme in Pakistan to educate people of adopting measures for keeping the ears healthy and to avoid any type of hearing impairment.
Executive Director PIRS Dr. Farrukh Seir presented vote of thanks, especially expressed his gratitude to the chief guest for gracing the event.