Since newborn hearing screenings began, what has happened to the average age at confirmation of hearing loss?

The average age at confirmation of hearing loss has significantly decreased since the implementation of newborn hearing screenings. This change underscores the effectiveness of early detection in healthcare practices, which promotes timely intervention for infants identified with hearing loss.

Before hearing screenings were widespread, many children were diagnosed with hearing loss long after their first year of life, often leading to delays in critical language development and communication skills. With early screening protocols in place, infants are now more likely to be identified with hearing loss shortly after birth. This proactive approach has not only allowed for earlier confirmation of hearing loss but also for earlier access to interventions such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, and appropriate educational resources.

The statement that it is now one tenth of what it used to be reflects the profound impact that systematic newborn hearing screenings have had on reducing the average age of diagnosis, facilitating timely support, and ultimately improving outcomes for children with hearing impairments.