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Neonatal screening for hearing loss: pilot study from a tertiary care centre
1Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632 004 India.
Summary
This study evaluated neonatal hearing loss in India, finding 1.6% of newborns had hearing impairment. Early screening using otoacoustic emissions (OAE) is crucial for identifying congenital deafness in India's healthcare system.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Universal neonatal hearing screening programs are established in developed nations.
- Implementing such programs in India presents challenges due to an overburdened healthcare system.
- Congenital deafness poses a significant public health concern globally.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence and burden of hearing loss among neonates in Southern India.
- To evaluate the feasibility of neonatal hearing screening within a tertiary care hospital setting.
- To determine the effectiveness of otoacoustic emission testing in identifying neonatal hearing impairment.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study screened 500 neonates using automated distortion product otoacoustic emission (aDPOAE).
- High-risk factors for hearing loss were identified in 9.2% of the neonates.
- Initial screening identified 6.4% with hearing loss, with 1.6% confirmed upon retesting with aDPOAE.
Main Results:
- A prevalence of 1.6% for neonatal hearing loss was found after retesting.
- Retesting with OAE before automated auditory brainstem response (aABR) effectively excluded neonates without hearing loss.
- The frequency of moderate to moderately severe hearing loss was determined to be 0.6%.
Conclusions:
- This pilot study highlights the importance of introducing congenital deafness screening in specialized Indian centers.
- Despite healthcare system challenges, neonatal hearing screening is a viable and necessary intervention.
- Early identification and intervention for hearing loss can significantly improve developmental outcomes in infants.
