National Infant Screening for Hearing Program in India: Necessity, Significance and Justification
Mohammad Shamim Ansari1, Arvinder Singh Sood2, Jaskaran Singh Gill2
1Department of Audiology, Ali Yavar Jang National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities (Divyangjan), (An Autonomous Institution, Under Department of Empowerment of Persons With Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India), K. C. Marg, Bandra (W), Mumbai, 400050 India.
Summary
Early identification and intervention for hearing impairment are crucial. Prompt diagnosis and treatment significantly improve speech, language, and overall quality of life for affected individuals of all ages.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Hearing impairment is a widespread global disorder affecting speech, language, and cognitive development in children and adults.
- Undetected hearing loss can lead to long-term educational, social, vocational, and emotional challenges, including isolation and depression.
- Early detection and intervention are vital for mitigating adverse effects and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To underscore hearing impairment as a significant public health issue.
- To advocate for the relevance of medical screening criteria for hearing.
- To propose optimal hearing screening and intervention strategies for India.
Main Methods:
- Review of current clinical methods for hearing loss identification and intervention.
- Justification of hearing as a public health concern.
- Discussion of screening criteria and intervention models.
Main Results:
- Current clinical methods are convenient, cost-effective, accurate, and evidence-based for widespread use.
- Early identification and intervention demonstrably reverse negative impacts of hearing impairment.
- A specific model for hearing screening and intervention in India is discussed.
Conclusions:
- Hearing impairment necessitates public health attention and robust screening protocols.
- Effective screening and timely intervention are key to improving outcomes for individuals with hearing loss.
- The proposed strategies aim to facilitate nation-wide early identification and intervention in India.
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