Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening programs have been implemented across the word. Hearing loss occurs often enough in the general population. Babies are born with hearing impairment 2 in 1000 and figures are 10 time more in high risk group
With modern technology hearing loss and degree of loss can be detected as early as 2-3 month old and management can be done immediately to avoid any delay. Method of screening and testing are reliable.
Early identification and intervention can prevent severe psychosocial, educational, and linguistic repercussions. Infants who are not identified before 6 months of age have delays in speech and language development. Intervention at or before 6 months of age allows a child with impaired hearing to develop normal speech and language, alongside his or her hearing peers.