Towards an adult hearing screening procedure
Marc Jan-Willem Lammers1, Chris Raine2, Griet Mertens1
1Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Edegem, Belgium; University of Antwerp, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Translational Neurosciences, Resonant Labs Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.
Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology
|April 12, 2025
Summary
A new adult hearing screening protocol, based on WHO guidelines, was developed. This simple, tablet-based tool aims to facilitate national hearing health programs, though cost and infrastructure remain key challenges.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Public Health
- Gerontology
Background:
- Hearing loss is a growing global health concern, particularly among adults.
- Existing World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations provide a basis for hearing screening.
- Effective adult hearing screening programs are needed to address this public health issue.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a simple and effective adult hearing screening protocol.
- To explore the feasibility and challenges of implementing national adult hearing screening programs worldwide.
Main Methods:
- Formation of an international expert working group (14 experts, 6 countries).
- Development of the HEARRING screening protocol based on expert recommendations.
- A global survey of 62 clinicians (22 countries) on implementation challenges.
Main Results:
- A tablet-based protocol including red flag questions, HHIE-S, and Digits-in-Noise test.
- The protocol is designed for primary care settings, emphasizing simplicity and minimal time.
- Clinicians view national screening as cost-effective, but funding and infrastructure are major concerns.
Conclusions:
- The HEARRING protocol provides a practical tool for initiating adult hearing screening.
- It aims to support clinicians and policymakers in establishing local and national programs.
- Addressing cost and infrastructure barriers is crucial for successful implementation.
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