According to the data of the World Health Organization, there are approximately 600 million hearing-impaired individuals in the world. In Türkiye, 2,000 of the 1.3 million babies born each year are born with hearing loss. The new-born hearing test performed after birth is of great importance in preventing hearing loss in new-born babies and ensuring that the baby's physical and mental development is not adversely affected.

Even if the result of the hearing assessment test performed immediately after birth is “pass”, the baby should continue to be monitored in the following months. Dr. Mustafa Kemal Olgun, Otorhinolaryngology Specialist at Medline Adana Hospital, provided information on the subject, saying, "The baby should respond to the parents' voices within 3 months and to response sounds within 6 months. By 12 months, they should be able to utter a few words, such as “mummy” or “daddy”. In other cases, it is very important to consult an expert without wasting time,".

Genetic inheritance is more common in male babies

Genetic inheritance is more common in hearing problems, especially in male babies, and the problem can be associated with certain syndromes (Down syndrome, Usher syndrome, Alport syndrome, etc.). Non-genetic hearing problems, on the other hand, can arise due to causes such as gestational diabetes, certain infections, RH incompatibility, and alcohol or drug use.

Tonsil and adenoid tissue growth affects hearing

During the transition from infancy to childhood, the most common problems are middle ear infections or fluid build-up in the middle ear. The most common cause of hearing loss is Eustachian tube blockage due to tonsil or adenoid tissue growth. The Eustachian tube connects the back of the nose to the middle ear and allows the middle ear to ventilate. Blockage in this area can lead to hearing loss. Other prominent causes include head trauma or certain viral infections.

Early diagnosis is crucial

Preventing hearing loss in new-born babies plays a major role in preventing negative effects on the baby's physical and mental development. Babies who cannot hear cannot learn to speak. Therefore, it is necessary to diagnose the problem early on and quickly implement methods to restore hearing.

These signs may indicate a problem

Family awareness and observation are crucial in preventing hearing loss in babies. If there is suspicion of a problem, it should be checked using advanced techniques such as the clinical ABR test, which is used to assess auditory function in children.

• If the child has trouble understanding or distinguishing speech
• If s/he has a different way of speaking from other children
• If s/he does not respond immediately when called by his/her name
• If s/he turn ups the volume on your television or other visual devices too high
• If s/he has hyperactivity or other behavioural problems
• If s/he has speech delay
• If s/he is lip-reading during other people's conversation