Hearing impairment in early childhood can significantly affect speech, language, and cognitive development, leading to academic and social challenges. Preterm birth and neonatal jaundice are recognized risk factors for auditory dysfunction. Early identification through objective screening methods is essential to prevent long-term consequences. This is a study that was undertaken to determine and compare the prevalence of hearing impairment in preterm children with and without jaundice and to emphasis the importance of early screening for the same. This is a hospital-based comparative study was conducted in the department of otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery at KLE’s Dr Prabhakar Kore Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Belagavi, from October 2022 to September 2023. A total of 50 preterm children were included, comprising 19 with jaundice and 31 without jaundice. All participants underwent detailed otoscopic examination to rule out external and middle ear pathology. Hearing sensitivity was evaluated using Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry (BERA). Common clinical histories included NICU admission, delayed speech development, and inconsistent response to sound. Bilateral abnormal BERA findings were observed in 30% of cases. Abnormal right ear findings were noted in 32% of children, with a higher proportion among those with jaundice. Similarly, abnormal left ear findings (38%) were more frequent in preterm children with jaundice. Wave V latency elevation and sensory pathology were the most common abnormalities detected. Hence, this is the research we did in the effort to demonstrates a higher prevalence of hearing impairment among preterm children with jaundice compared to those without jaundice, emphasizing the importance of universal newborn hearing screening and early intervention. Further, in relation to the screening we have concluded that the effect of hyperbilirubinemia to certain areas of brain.

Lavanya Arjunan is a medical professional in the department of otorhinolaryngology and head & neck surgery at KLE’s Dr Prabhakar Kore Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Belagavi. She has been actively involved in clinical practice and research with a special interest in pediatric audiology and early detection of hearing impairment. Her work focuses on neonatal hearing screening, risk factor analysis in preterm infants, and improving early intervention strategies to enhance speech and cognitive outcomes. She has participated in academic presentations and research activities contributing to advancements in otolaryngology.