AAR introduces newborn ENT tests to improve early detection of hearing loss
Health & Science
By
Brian Ngugi
| Jan 22, 2025
AAR Hospital has introduced a new range of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) tests for newborns, aiming to improve early detection of hearing complications and other related conditions.
The tests, conducted at the hospital's Kiambu Road facility, involve a comprehensive ENT examination to identify any structural anomalies or infections in the ear, nose, and throat that could affect breathing, feeding, or hearing.
"These tests ensure early diagnosis of congenital hearing loss or other ENT-related issues, which, if untreated, can impact speech, language development, and overall cognitive growth," said AAR Hospital ENT specialist Dr Ian Macharia adding, "Early intervention greatly enhances a child's developmental outcomes and quality of life."
READ MORE
Sudan tea export ban threatens nascent value addition hub in Mombasa
Practitioners bear burden of restoring trust in property sector
IM Bank opens new branch in Bungoma
Kenyan coffee prices surge as NCE records Sh19.3billion in sales
Coffee factories earn Sh19.3 billion from 375,843 bags at NCE
The Ghibli revolution: How AI anime is redefining digital images
AI coming for anime but Ghibli's Miyazaki irreplaceable, son says
Stock markets mixed as uncertainty rules ahead of Trump tariffs
PS calls for empowerment of women in procurement and supply chain
Approximately 1 in every 1,000 newborns in Kenya suffers from hearing loss, while ENT infections are a leading cause of morbidity in children. Access to early screening and diagnostic services remains limited, highlighting the significance of AAR Hospital's initiative.
The ENT tests typically include newborn hearing screening using Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) or Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) testing to detect hearing loss. Interventions for hearing loss may include fitting hearing aids, cochlear implants, or enrolling the child in early intervention programs.
Middle ear infections (Otitis Media) are treated using antibiotics or, in recurrent cases, minor surgical procedures like tympanostomy tube insertion. Cases of structural anomalies, such as cleft palate or narrow ear canals, are normally referred for surgical or specialized medical intervention.
Dr Wakonyo Gicheru, the lead paediatrician at AAR Hospital, emphasized the importance of early intervention.
"Typically, newborn hearing screenings are easier to treat and more affordable," Dr Wakonyo said.
He said late diagnostics like ABR are costlier and more complex.
The introduction of these ENT tests for newborns aligns with AAR Hospital's recent launch of specialized pediatric service clinics.
These clinics offer a wide range of services, from regular check-ups and vaccinations to health screenings for children of all ages, promoting early diagnosis and treatment of childhood diseases.
The increased demand for pediatric healthcare comes amid a growing prevalence of childhood diseases, congenital disorders, and developmental delays, highlighting the critical need for specialized services and early intervention.