Auditory perception and language development of newborns with hearing loss in Turkey

Aim: The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to present the demographic and clinical features of newborns diagnosed with hearing loss and to evaluate the results of hearing rehabilitation in terms of auditory perception and speech and language skills. Materials and methods: Demographic data, auditory perception performances and receptive and expressive language skills of newborns were evaluated with Ling’s six sounds test, Infant-Toddler/Meaningful Auditory Integration Scale and Preschool Language Scale Fourth Edition on first admission and subsequently at 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th years. Results: A total of 30 newborns (10 girls, 20 boys), with an average age of 48.70±17.19 (range, 5 to 75) months at the initial evaluation-were included in this study. There was significant increases on the detection and recognition performance of Ling’s six sounds and IT-MAIS/MAIS scores. These improvements were observed more remarkably especially in the first and second years. Receptive and expressive language performances of newborns were increasing gradually and reached to the level of chronologic age at the end of the second year. Conclusion: Neonatal hearing screening programs must be popularized for early diagnosis and referral of newborns with hearing loss. Increased awareness and improvement of communication on these topics are mandatory for achievement of better results