[The universal audiological screening of newborn infants: achievements and challenges]
Insights
Universal audiological screening in Russia identified hearing loss in 2 of 1,000 newborns. Key factors for effective newborn hearing screening include equipment and coverage.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
Context:
- Universal audiological screening of newborn infants is crucial for early detection of hearing loss.
- Analysis of data from 2011-2012 in 15 Russian regions provides insights into the national screening program.
- Surdological centers' activities highlight regional variations and challenges in implementation.
Purpose:
- To estimate the effectiveness of universal newborn audiological screening in Russia.
- To identify key indicators influencing the success of the screening program.
- To assess the prevalence of hearing impairment in the Russian newborn population.
Summary:
- The study analyzed 2011-2012 data from 15 Russian regions to evaluate newborn hearing screening effectiveness.
- Key effectiveness indicators identified were technical equipment in maternity facilities, first-stage screening coverage, and continuity of care.
- 3.14% of infants missed the initial screening; hearing impairment was detected in 2/1000 newborns, with severe cases at 3/10,000.
Impact:
- Highlights significant gaps in newborn hearing screening coverage and identifies areas for improvement.
- Underscores the need to enhance data collection methods for more accurate identification of congenital hearing loss.
- Provides evidence-based recommendations for optimizing national audiological screening programs for infants.
Abstract:
The objective of the present study was to estimate the effectiveness of universal audiological screening of newborn infants in Russia based on the results of this procedure obtained in 2011-2012 by the analysis of the activities of surdological centres in 15 regions of the country. It was shown, that the main indicators of the effectiveness of the screening are the technical equipment of maternity houses, newborn coverage at the first stage of screening, and its continuity. The study revealed 3.14% of the infants who failed to be involved in the first stage of screening. Hearing impairment was diagnosed in two of each 1,000 newborn infants at the second stage of screening, the frequency of severe forms of hearing impairment was estimated as three cases per 10,000 infants. The disadvantages of the current system of identification of newborn infants suffering congenital loss of hearing are discussed. The importance of the improvement of data collection methods is emphasized.
