Neonatal screening contributes to the prevention of hearing and visual impairments

Early detection of hearing impairment through neonatal screening allows for the timely identification and treatment of such conditions in newborns. Which is crucial for preventing potential delays in cognitive development during childhood.

This highlights the value of the screening, performed consistently on all newborns for about three years now. Carried out in the neonatal units of Holguin province (located in the municipalities of Moa, Banes, and Mayari, as well as the provincial capital). This initiative is made possible by four pieces of equipment donated by MediCuba-Switzerland. Designed specifically for hearing and visual screening.

Hearing screening for a newborn at the Vladimir Ilich Lenin Hospital. Photo: Maylín Betancourt

Solangel Toirac Ramayo, a specialist in speech-language pathology and audiology. Responsible for administering the test at the province’s largest maternity ward: the Vladimir Ilich Lenin General University Hospital. She notes that the procedure is highly effective for the early detection of hearing loss. Thereby ensuring a better quality of life for the affected infants.

In this regard, the specialist explained that an auditory potential test is performed on all babies born at the maternity unit 48 hours after birth. If the test indicates an abnormality, the infant is monitored every 15 days. In many cases, hearing is restored by the three-month mark. However, if the test results remain abnormal at three months of age, a more in-depth and detailed evaluation is required at the Octavio de la Concepción de la Pedraja Pediatric Hospital.

Regarding the unquestionable benefits of hearing screening, the speech-language pathologist explains its importance. It allows parents to know early on what steps to take to ensure their child’s hearing health. Early detection of hearing impairment through neonatal screening ensures optimal future development. Finally it prevents potential long-term complications, a principle that fosters a healthy, thriving childhood.