FOUR healthcare professionals in the Island have spoken to a local branch of the Women's Institute about the importance of looking after their ears, feet and breasts.

Audiologist Guy Wolstencroft, podiatrist Owen Thomas and Sue Ardern and Hilary Miller from the Breast Care Team at Nobles Hospital spoke to the Spring Chicks Women's Institute last week.

Guy told the audience about the structure of the ear and how the ear becomes damaged. He also spoke about the social implications of hearing loss and how it can affect the lives of both those who suffer from it and family and friends around them.

He said: "I was really happy to attend what was a very interesting evening. The other speakers were very informative and I welcomed the opportunity to educate the ladies on the importance of protecting their hearing and how to encourage people they might know who are experiencing hearing loss to deal with it properly."

Owen spoke about the importance of caring for feet from a young age and how relatively small muscles in the feet can have significant impact on the hips and knees if they are not used properly.

Sue and Hilary shared positive statistics on breast cancer and explained how to be breast aware and to check for changes. They also informed ladies that the local breast screening process allows women over 50 to have a free breast screening every two years.

Debbie Kenyon, secretary of the Spring Chicks group said: "The evening was a great success – fun and informative. I would really like to thank all of the speakers for giving up their time to share their knowledge with the group.

"We would especially like to thank each of them for giving up their speakers' fee to donate the funds to Breast Cancer Awareness instead."

For more information on Manx Hidden Hearing click here.