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Behavioral Assessment of Hearing in 2 to 4 Year-old Children: A Two-interval, Observer-based Procedure Using Conditioned Play-based Responses
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Behavioral Assessment of Hearing in 2 to 4 Year-old Children: A Two-interval, Observer-based Procedure Using Conditioned Play-based Responses

Published on: January 23, 2017

Effects of preschool screening for vision and hearing on prevalence of vision and hearing problems 6-12 months later

W Feldman, R A Milner, B Sackett

    Lancet (London, England)
    |November 8, 1980
    PubMed

    Insights

    Preschool vision screening effectively reduced vision problems in children. However, preschool hearing screening did not show similar benefits, with seasonal variations impacting results.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric ophthalmology
    • Audiology
    • Public health screening programs

    Background:

    • Early detection of vision and hearing impairments in children is crucial for development.
    • Previous studies suggest screening programs can improve health outcomes.
    • The effectiveness of preschool vision and hearing screening requires ongoing evaluation.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To compare the prevalence of vision and hearing problems in children previously screened versus those not screened.
    • To assess the impact of preschool screening on the need for corrective measures like eyeglasses.
    • To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of preschool vision and hearing screening programs.

    Main Methods:

    • A cohort study design comparing 763 screened and 743 non-screened kindergarten children.
    • Children were matched for age, sex, and socioeconomic status.
    • A trained nurse-tester conducted vision and hearing examinations.

    Main Results:

    • Screened children had significantly fewer vision problems (10% vs. 15%) and a higher rate of eyeglass use (58% more).
    • No statistically significant difference in hearing problems between screened (16.8%) and non-screened (14%) groups.
    • Hearing problem prevalence showed seasonal variation, peaking in late autumn/early winter.

    Conclusions:

    • Preschool vision screening is associated with improved outcomes, including fewer vision problems and increased eyeglass use.
    • Preschool hearing screening, in this study, was not linked to better outcomes and showed seasonal fluctuations.
    • Further research may be needed to optimize hearing screening protocols and address seasonal influences.

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