National Ear Care Day 2026: Protect Hearing Through Science

March 3, 2026, marked China's 27th National Ear Care Day. The theme, “Scientific ear care for all, protecting hearing health together,” called for wider understanding of hearing and practical protection across the lifespan.

The outer, middle and inner ear work together. Damage at any part can affect hearing. The article estimates that nearly 30 million people in China have hearing or speech disabilities and says many acquired hearing problems can be prevented. It highlights prolonged loud sound and unsafe headphone habits as risks to the inner ear's hair cells, especially among young people.

Ear disease, misuse of potentially ototoxic medicines and other habits can also affect hearing. The article mentions delayed treatment of otitis media, careless ear cleaning, water left in the ear canal, chronic illness, smoking and heavy drinking as concerns. These broad risks should be addressed through appropriate medical care rather than self-treatment.

Three priorities for hearing care

1. Use sound safely. The article suggests a “60–60” headphone rule—no more than 60% of maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes continuously—alongside hearing protection in noisy settings and keeping the ear canal clean and dry. Device volume percentages do not establish a universal safe sound level.
2. Support overall health. Eat a balanced diet, avoid smoking, limit alcohol, manage chronic conditions and seek care when ear symptoms occur.
3. Protect hearing at every age. Watch children's auditory development, noise risks in younger and middle-aged adults, and changes in older adults so that concerns can be identified and assessed early.

The article also advises against inserting cotton swabs into the ear canal. Warning signs include frequently asking others to repeat themselves, struggling to follow speech in noise, tinnitus and repeatedly increasing television volume. Seek a qualified assessment when such signs appear.