Risk factors and management modalities for sudanese children with hearing loss or hearing impairment done in Aldwha and Khartoum ENT hospitals, Sudan

Abstract

Introduction: Hearing impairment indicate a full or partial decrease in ability to detect or understand sounds. Their first presentation could be with delayed speech, language and cognitive ability. The goal of universal newborn hearing screeningprograms (UNHS), which are widely used in developed countries, is early recognition and treatment of hearing impairment. All children should be managed by a multidisciplinary team. Objectives: To study the risk factors and treatment of hearing loss and impairement in children seen at Aldwha and Khartoum ENT Hospitals, Sudan. Material and Methods: This is a retrospective, descriptive and hospital-based study done at Aldwha and Khartoum ENT Hospitals, Sudan. Study period was four months. Study population were children with hearing loss and hearing impairment seen in the referal clinics of the two hospitals. Data was collected by using a questionnaire. General examination, developmental assessment and some investigations were done. Data was analyzed using Cochran's equation. Results: A total of 119 children with hearing impairment or hearing losswere selected. M to F ratio was 1.13 to 1. Sensory neural hearing loss was the commonest in 75.6% followed by conductive hearing loss in 21.0%, mixed in 2.5% and rarely central in 0.8%. Bilateral (HL) was detected in 89.1%. As a risk factors, early rubella during pregnancy account for 1.7% , birth asphyxia in 2.5% , prematurity in 5.9%, neonatal jaundice in 6.7% and otitis media in 19.3%. Quinine was the commonest drug that caused HL. Isolated hearing loss was detected in 42.0% , hearing loss and speech defect in 47.9%. Who received ear aids were 70.6%. There was a significant association between otitis media and conductive hearing loss. In conclusion the commonest age group affected were children between 1 and 4 years. Male to Female ratio was 1.13 to 1. Consanguineous marriage was reported in almost ¾ of studied families. Sensory neural hearing loss was the commonest and majority had bilateral (HL). Otitis media was a common risk factor followed by meningitis. Three quarters received ear aids. We recommend early screening of neonates and infants with risk factors by introduction of NHS program, safe administration of drugs, activation of primary health programs & establishment of audiological units.