Did you know that hearing loss is one of the most common major abnormalities present at birth, and if undetected, it will impair speech, language, and cognitive development? According to the WHO, around 0.5–5 in every 1000 neonates and infants have congenital hearing loss. Here comes the important role of universal neonatal hearing screening in preventing adverse outcomes for these unfortunate children.  

Neonatal hearing screening plays a crucial role in identifying hearing loss in infants shortly after birth. This non-invasive procedure helps ensure early intervention and appropriate management, enabling infants with hearing impairments to develop essential communication and language skills. In Malaysia, the implementation of neonatal hearing screening programmes has gained significant momentum in recent years, contributing to improved outcomes for children with hearing loss.  

Early identification of hearing loss is vital as it allows for prompt intervention, which significantly improves a child's overall development. Research has consistently shown that children who receive early intervention for hearing loss have better speech and language outcomes, cognitive abilities, and social-emotional development compared to those diagnosed later. Neonatal hearing screening programmes provide an opportunity to detect hearing loss early, ensuring timely intervention and reducing the potential impact on a child's life.  

Malaysia recognizes the importance of early hearing detection and intervention, leading to the implementation of national programmes aimed at screening newborns for hearing impairments. These programmes are primarily conducted in hospitals and healthcare centres across the country. The Malaysian Ministry of Health has been actively involved in promoting these initiatives, ensuring that all infants have access to comprehensive screening services.  

Various screening methods are employed in Malaysia to identify hearing loss in newborns. The most commonly used method of otoacoustic testing is emission (OAE) testing, which measures the sounds generated by the inner ear in response to a stimulus. Additionally, automated auditory brainstem response (AABR) testing is also employed, which measures the electrical activity of the auditory nerve and brainstem in response to sound.  

Neonatal hearing screening programmes in Malaysia have played a pivotal role in facilitating early identification of hearing loss, allowing for timely intervention and support for affected infants. With the ongoing commitment from the government and healthcare institutions, it is expected that these programmes will continue to evolve and expand, ensuring that every newborn in Malaysia has the opportunity for a bright and successful future, regardless of their hearing abilities.  

Protect the future of our little ones!  

Early intervention by scheduling a screening appointment for your newborn today!   

Nurulafifah Binti Mohmmad, Clinical Audiologist at 20dB Hearing Subang Jaya