Peripheral and Central Auditory Abilities in Children with Mild Protein-Energy Malnutrition

Chandni Jain1, Saransh Jain2, K B Chetak3

  • 1Department of Audiology, All India Institute of Speech and Hearing, Mysuru, 570006 India.

Insights

Mild Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM) in children impacts central auditory processing, specifically affecting binaural interaction, auditory closure, and working memory. This highlights the need for early detection and intervention in affected populations.

Area of Science:

  • Auditory Neuroscience
  • Nutritional Science
  • Developmental Pediatrics

Background:

  • Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM) is a global health issue impacting child development.
  • While severe PEM is linked to hearing loss, mild PEM's auditory effects are less understood.
  • Auditory processing is crucial for language, learning, and social interaction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of mild PEM on peripheral and central auditory processing in children.
  • To identify specific auditory deficits associated with mild PEM.
  • To inform targeted interventions for children with malnutrition.

Main Methods:

  • 108 children (7-14 years) were assessed, divided into control and mild-PEM groups.
  • Peripheral auditory function was evaluated using pure tone, speech, and immittance audiometry.
  • Central auditory processing was assessed through tests of binaural interaction, integration, closure, temporal processing, and auditory working memory.

Main Results:

  • Mild PEM did not significantly impair peripheral hearing sensitivity.
  • Significant deficits were observed in central auditory processing for children with mild PEM.
  • Poorer performance in mild-PEM group noted for binaural interaction, auditory closure, and auditory working memory.

Conclusions:

  • Mild PEM affects central auditory processing, not peripheral hearing.
  • Auditory deficits in children with PEM require targeted interventions.
  • Addressing malnutrition's impact on auditory function supports holistic child development, especially in resource-limited settings.