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Hearing impairment among 10-year-old children: metropolitan Atlanta, 1985 through 1987
C D Drews1, M Yeargin-Allsopp, C C Murphy
1Division of Epidemiology, Emory University School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA 30329.
Insights
The study found a hearing impairment prevalence of 1.1 per 1000 children in Atlanta (1985-1987). Most cases were diagnosed late, highlighting a need for improved early identification methods for childhood hearing loss.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Hearing impairment affects children's development and learning.
- Early identification and intervention are crucial for managing childhood hearing loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the prevalence of hearing impairment in 10-year-old children in metropolitan Atlanta.
- To identify common causes and determine the age of diagnosis for hearing impairment in this population.
Main Methods:
- Reviewed records of hearing-impaired children aged 10 in metropolitan Atlanta (1985-1987).
- Data sourced from public schools and health/social service agencies.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of hearing impairment was 1.1 per 1000 children.
- Slightly higher prevalence observed in Black children and boys compared to White children and girls.
- Meningitis, genetic conditions, and congenital rubella syndrome were the most common known causes.
- Etiology remained undetermined for 55% of cases.
- 74% of children were diagnosed after age 2.
Conclusions:
- Childhood hearing impairment prevalence was 1.1 per 1000 in the study population.
- Significant proportion of children diagnosed late, indicating a need for enhanced early detection strategies.
- Meningitis and genetic factors are key identified causes, but etiology is often unknown.
Abstract:
The prevalence of hearing impairment among 10-year-old children in metropolitan Atlanta between 1985 and 1987 was evaluated. Hearing-impaired children were identified by reviewing records at public schools and health and social service agencies. The prevalence was 1.1 per 1000 and was slightly higher among Blacks and boys than among Whites and girls. The most common known causes of hearing impairment were meningitis (0.3 per 1000), genetic and hereditary conditions (0.2 per 1000), and congenital rubella syndrome (0.1 per 1000). For 55% of the children, the etiology of the hearing loss could not be determined. Most (74%) of the children were diagnosed after the age of 2, suggesting that methods of early identification need to be improved.