History of Premature Birth and Low Birth Weight as Risk Factors for Hearing Impairment in Children

Dina Alia; Nuzul Afrizal

doi:10.35582/ijcpch.v7i1.52

Dina Alia Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia
Nuzul Afrizal 2Residency Program in Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.35582/ijcpch.v7i1.52

Keywords: Premature, Low birth weight, Hearing loss, Hearing aids, Speech therapy.

Abstract

Background: Infants with a history of low birth weight (LBW) and prematurity are at increased risk of developing hearing loss, along with other health complications. Since normal hearing is closely linked to speech and language development, untreated hearing loss in these infants can significantly impair communication skills. Therefore, early hearing screening is essential.

Objective: The aim of the study was to understand the significance of LBW and prematurity as risk factors for hearing loss in infants.

Case Report: We presented a case of a 3-year-old boy with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. The patient had multiple risk factors, including prematurity, LBW, congenital heart disease, asphyxia, and hyperbilirubinemia. Hearing evaluations using otoacoustic emissions (OAE), brainstem evoked response audiometry (BERA), and auditory steady-state response (ASSR) confirmed the diagnosis. The child was subsequently fitted with hearing aids and underwent behavioral and speech therapy.

Method: Literature studies were conducted manually to deepen understanding of the relationship between prematurity, LBW, and hearing loss.

Conclusion: Infants with LBW and prematurity are at increased risk of hearing loss. Early detection and timely intervention with hearing aids, combined with rehabilitation therapy, play a critical role in optimizing language and communication development.