Experts urge early detection and intervention to support language, social skills and educational outcomes
Newborn hearing screening is a vital first step in identifying hearing loss early in life, allowing for timely interventions that will significantly improve a child’s development. Medical professionals are increasingly calling for immediate screening after birth, followed by ongoing observation of a child’s auditory responses.
If an infant does not respond to loud sounds by three to four months or fails to locate sounds by six months, parents are advised to seek specialist advice. Delayed speech – such as not saying “Mum” or “Dad”, or their equivalents, by their first birthday – can also be a warning sign.
Causes of hearing loss in infants
Genetic factors account for about 50-60% of paediatric hearing loss. Environmental influences, including premature birth, infections during pregnancy, certain illnesses, and ototoxic drugs, can also contribute. Early intervention is crucial because delayed diagnosis can have lasting effects on language development and social interaction.
For mild hearing loss (25-40dB), hearing aids may be sufficient, especially if speech development is progressing. In moderate to severe cases, hearing aids are often essential, while cochlear implants may be needed for children with profound hearing loss who do not respond to amplification.
Timing is everything
The first six months to five years of life represent a critical window for auditory and language development. Fitting hearing aids or implants early – combined with language therapy and auditory training – can dramatically improve outcomes. This includes tailored adjustments to hearing devices through sound mapping.
Preventive measures include protecting mothers from infections such as rubella and cytomegalovirus during pregnancy, and avoiding harmful medications. Universal newborn hearing screening is endorsed by leading health authorities. If initial tests raise concerns, immediate follow-up is essential. Early diagnosis of conditions such as otitis media with effusion can prevent long-term complications.
Call for universal screening
Early identification and treatment – ideally before six months – significantly improve language and cognitive outcomes. Without standardised screening, many children risk missing this crucial window.
The UK is relatively advanced in this respect. All babies are offered newborn hearing screening, usually within the first 4-5 weeks of life. According to the NHS, newborn hearing screening always involves the automated otoacoustic emission (AOAE) test. Some babies also need a second test, the automated auditory brainstem response (AABR) test.
The AOAE test involves placing a small soft-tipped earpiece in the baby’s ear, after which gentle clicking sounds are played. The ear response is picked up by the screening equipment, so there is no need for the child to respond.
The AABR test involves placing small sensors on the baby’s forehead, nape of neck and shoulder. Soft headphones are placed over the baby’s ears and gentle clicking sounds are played. If required, follow-up assessment is provided by a specialist audiologist.
“Too often, hearing issues in infants and young children go unnoticed until developmental delays become apparent,” said Irene Wong, a Clinical Audiologist at Hearology®. “Regular, regulated hearing screenings and prompt interventions can prevent avoidable setbacks in a child’s early years. Such interventions include the use of appropriate paediatric audiological testing techniques and microsuction for safe cleaning. It is possible, in the hands of skilled practitioners like those who work here at Hearology®, to carry out microsuction ear cleaning without the use of anaesthetic on children as young as three years old. Awareness and timely action are critical when it comes to dealing with hearing issues in young children.”
References
- Newborn hearing screening: programme overview – Overview of NHS screening process, benefits and the importance of early intervention
- CDC – About Hearing Loss in Children – Causes, risks, and the role of early testing in preventing delays
- American Family Physician – Universal Newborn Hearing Screening – Highlights that risk-based screening misses half of affected children
- NIDCD – Baby’s Hearing Screening – Practical guide to follow-up steps after the newborn hearing test
