Hearing (newborn)
The UK NSC policy on Hearing screening for newborns
More Information
The incidence of significant permanent congenital hearing impairment (PCHI) is about 1 in 1,000 live births in most developed countries although this may be 3-4 times higher in certain communities or parts of the UK. The incidence almost doubles by ten years of age because of acquired hearing loss from meningitis (see entry), mumps, measles, trauma and other causes. The most common reason for PCHI is loss of hair cells in the inner ear but it is sometimes due to malformation of the middle ear ossicles (small bones that transmit vibrations of the ear drum) or the ear canal (tube from the outer to the inner ear). If the hearing loss is due to a problem within the inner ear (sensory), or occasionally due to abnormalities in the hearing nerve (neural), the term sensorineural hearing loss is used. Hearing loss due to a problem within the middle ear or the outer ear is called a conductive hearing loss while a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss is called a mixed loss.
» Read more about hearing and deafness on the Contact a Family website
Policy Position
Screening is recommended by the UK NSC.
This policy was reviewed in Jul 2006 but no significant changes were made. It is due to be considered again in 2013/14, or earlier if significant new evidence emerges.
Screening in the UK
Compare how screening is offered across the UK.
Evidence Supporting the Policy
Health Technology Assessment 1997; Vol 1: No. 10: A critical review of the role of neonatal hearing screening in the detection of congenital hearing impariment
Child Health Sub Group report on neonatal hearing screening.
Stakeholders
Action on Hearing Loss
British Society of Audiologists
Institute of Child Health
National Deaf Children's Society
Royal College of General Practitioners
Royal College of Midwives
Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.
