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Updated: Aug 17, 2026
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
The effectiveness of two infant hearing screening programmes in New Zealand
Insights
Early detection of congenital hearing loss is crucial. Current screening programs show limited success in identifying deaf infants, highlighting the need for improved strategies for early diagnosis and intervention.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Audiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Congenital hearing loss affects newborns and requires early identification for optimal development.
- Existing neonatal and infant hearing screening programs aim to detect hearing impairments in early childhood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the effectiveness of neonatal and 9-month at-risk hearing screening programs.
- To present data on the age of detection for deaf preschoolers in New Zealand.
Main Methods:
- Evaluation of a neonatal hearing screening program.
- Analysis of a 9-month at-risk hearing screening program.
- Review of age of detection data for deaf preschoolers.
Main Results:
- Neither the neonatal nor the 9-month at-risk screening program significantly contributed to detecting deaf infants.
- The 9-month at-risk screening can be effective when implemented properly.
- Data on the age of diagnosis for deaf preschoolers in New Zealand were compiled.
Conclusions:
- Current hearing screening protocols may not be sufficiently effective for early detection of congenital hearing loss.
- Optimized administration of at-risk screening at 9 months could improve detection rates.
- Further research is needed to enhance early identification of hearing loss in infants and preschoolers.
Abstract:
Early detection of congenital hearing loss is vital. A neonatal hearing screening programme and a 9 month at risk hearing screening programme are analysed. Neither contributed significantly to the detection of deaf infants, though 9 month at risk screening can be worthwhile if well administered. Age of detection data for deaf preschoolers in New Zealand are presented.
