Padmashree Prof. Dr. J.M. Hans stands as a towering figure in ENT and cochlear implant surgery, revolutionizing hearing restoration across South Asia. A pioneer in his field, he has redefined surgical precision, transforming countless lives through his expertise. His groundbreaking work in cochlear implant surgery has earned him national and international recognition, making him one of the most sought-after experts in otology.
With a career spanning decades, Dr. Hans has performed over 4,000 cochlear implant surgeries across SAARC nations, offering life-changing solutions to individuals suffering from hearing impairment. In 2005, the Hon’ble former President of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, honoured him with the prestigious Padmashree award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to medicine.
As Chairman & Director of Dr. Hans Centre for ENT & Cochlear Implant, he continues to push the boundaries of medical innovation. His expertise has led to his appointment as an Honorary Consultant to the former Prime Minister of India. He also plays a pivotal role in shaping national health policies, serving as a government-appointed member of the Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities (Divyangjan), Mumbai, and an Executive Member of the All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH), Mysore.
Dr. Hans plays a critical role in the National Program on Prevention and Control of Deafness (NPPCD), directly influencing policy and implementation in hearing healthcare. His advisory positions with the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) further reinforce his status as a global authority in ENT and cochlear implant technology.
A true innovator, he introduced minimally invasive cochlear implantation techniques in India, setting new standards in surgical precision and patient care. As a visiting cochlear implant surgeon, he extends his expertise to premier medical institutions, including PGI Chandigarh and top colleges in Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. His commitment to social impact is equally remarkable—through his advisory role at the Pingalwara Trust in Amritsar, he provides life-changing interventions for the underprivileged.
Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Hans plays an instrumental role in expanding access to cochlear implants nationwide. He serves on the ADIP Committee for Cochlear Implants under the Government of India and the Executive Council of AIISH Mysore, driving policy advancements in hearing healthcare.
A visionary in otolaryngology, Dr. Hans remains steadfast in his mission to make hearing restoration accessible while mentoring the next generation of medical professionals.
In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World at the 3rd Awareness Summit on Illness to Wellness, hosted by ASSOCHAM, he underscores how maintaining a healthy ENT system enhances longevity and quality of life. He delves into the latest technological breakthroughs addressing hearing loss and explores cutting-edge advancements revolutionizing dementia care. Here are the key takeaways from his compelling insights.
Q: A well-functioning ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) system is essential for overall health and well-being. How does maintaining a healthy ENT contribute to longevity and quality of life?
A: The ear, nose, and throat (ENT) play a critical role in overall health. Nasal issues can restrict blood circulation and oxygen intake, affecting the body’s vital functions. Children born with adenoids or enlarged tonsils often experience snoring and oxygen deprivation. This early-life oxygen deficiency sets them on a negative trajectory, increasing their risk of long-term health complications. Additionally, issues in the larynx, such as voice box cancers, frequently arise in smokers, further underscoring the importance of ENT health.
However, the ear holds particular significance, as it governs both hearing and balance. Once the delicate hair cells in the inner ear degenerate, they cannot regenerate—no medication, surgery, or intervention can restore them. The only solution is prevention. Avoiding ototoxic drugs and excessive exposure to loud noise is crucial. Many people wear earbuds continuously in noisy environments, unaware that they amplify sound and exert harmful air pressure on the inner ear. Noise-cancelling headphones are a safer alternative, as they reduce external noise without intensifying internal ear pressure. Parents and educators must actively discourage children from using earbuds and promote the use of high-quality noise-cancelling headphones instead.
The most encouraging advancement in this field is that deafness is no longer a lifelong disability. Modern technology offers effective solutions for various hearing impairments. If a child is born deaf, medical interventions can not only restore hearing but also enable speech development. Traditionally, deaf individuals were also mute due to their inability to acquire language. However, cutting-edge innovations now provide comprehensive solutions, ensuring that hearing-impaired individuals can lead fully functional lives.
Q: What are the latest technological advancements designed to address hearing challenges?
A: The most effective solution is a cochlear implant—a small chip implanted in the brain, specifically in the cochlea. This device captures sound from external sources and bypasses the damaged hair cells. It then converts sound waves into electrical signals, mimicking the cochlea’s natural transducer effect. These signals travel directly to the auditory nerve, restoring the ability to perceive sound and effectively treating hearing loss.
Q: How can we revolutionize dementia care and improve patient outcomes?
A: If the brain doesn’t receive auditory input, blood flow decreases because the body stops supplying resources to an inactive area. I once treated an 83-year-old woman who had suffered from depression and dementia for a decade due to hearing loss and poor vision. Over the past eight months, I have observed a remarkable improvement in her brain vitality. She can now hear, engage in conversations, and feels genuinely happy. This transformation occurred because auditory stimulation restored blood circulation to her brain. The brain thrives when it receives regular sensory input—when it hears, sees, and processes stimuli actively.
Q: Can this technology pave the way for a potential cure for dementia in the near future?
A: If dementia stems from vasoconstriction due to a lack of auditory and visual stimulation, restoring these senses can lead to improvement. However, if hereditary, neurological, or endocrine disorders cause dementia, addressing those underlying conditions becomes essential. By treating both sensory deprivation and medical factors, we can enhance cognitive function and work toward a cure.
