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Newborn hearing screening in Hong Kong.
1Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong. lamccb@ha.org.hk
Hong Kong Medical Journal = Xianggang Yi Xue Za Zhi
|June 9, 2006
Summary
Universal newborn hearing screening programmes are vital for early diagnosis and intervention, improving language and cognitive outcomes. A cost-effective, hospital-based programme with modern devices ensures early detection for hearing-impaired infants.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Public Health
- Health Economics
Background:
- Newborn hearing screening (NHS) is crucial for early identification of hearing loss.
- Timely intervention before six months of age significantly improves language and cognitive development in affected children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing studies on newborn hearing screening in Hong Kong.
- To evaluate the cost-effectiveness and optimal model for universal newborn hearing screening (UNHS) programmes in Hong Kong.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of Medline (1985-2004) and local reports.
- Review of data on NHS strategies, screening devices, and cost-effectiveness.
Main Results:
- High coverage UNHS programmes are essential for early diagnosis and intervention.
- Effective programmes are hospital-based, utilize sensitive/specific screening devices, and are parent-acceptable.
- Early intervention before six months ensures optimal language and cognitive development.
Conclusions:
- Evidence supports the cost-effectiveness and long-term benefits of UNHS.
- Hong Kong needs a coordinated, multidisciplinary, and sustainable territory-wide UNHS programme with integrated interventions.
- Implementation of such a programme is crucial for future generations of hearing-impaired children.