Hearing loss prevalence and hearing health among school-aged children in the Canadian Arctic

Abstract

Objective Hearing loss is an important health concern in Canada’s Arctic. The objective of this research was to provide information on the prevalence of childhood hearing loss in Nunavut. Design This cross-sectional study involved comprehensive audiologic assessments of school-aged children in six communities to determine overall and community-specific prevalence of hearing loss. Data were collected about hearing aid use and factors affecting use through a parent questionnaire. Study sample Assessments were completed for 644 children in kindergarten to grade 6. Results 124 (19.3%) children had hearing loss of ≥ 30 dB HL at one or more frequencies in at least one ear (93.5% conductive loss). Applying a Canadian prevalence study definition, 148 (23.5%) children had hearing loss. Tympanic membrane perforations were present in 36.8% (n = 28) of children with unilateral and 45.8% (n = 22) with bilateral loss. Conclusions The prevalence of hearing loss in Canada’s North was almost three times that reported for non-indigenous children. One in five school-aged children was found to have hearing loss that is likely to affect classroom learning and social/emotional development. A hearing health strategy tailored to this population is critically needed.