Delays in diagnosis and intervention for paediatric hearing loss: the role of parental psychological inflexibility in a multicentre Iranian study - Report - MDSpire
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Delays in diagnosis and intervention for paediatric hearing loss: the role of parental psychological inflexibility in a multicentre Iranian study
Impact of Parental Psychological Inflexibility on Timeliness of Diagnosis and Treatment for Childhood Hearing Loss
Overview
This multicentre study in Iran assessed the relationship between parental psychological inflexibility and the timeliness of diagnosis and intervention for childhood hearing loss. Despite high coverage of newborn hearing screening, significant delays in diagnosis and intervention were observed, with no meaningful association found between parental psychological inflexibility and EHDI timelines.
Background
Congenital hearing loss is a prevalent sensory disorder that can significantly affect a child's development. Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) programs aim to mitigate these effects by ensuring timely diagnosis and intervention. However, despite high screening rates, delays in subsequent steps remain a critical issue.
Data Highlights
Measure
Mean (±SD)
Age at Diagnosis
16.93 (±14.63) months
Age at Intervention
23.22 (±15.35) months
Diagnosis-to-Intervention Interval
6.43 (±9.25) months
Key Findings
The mean age at diagnosis was 16.93 months.
The mean age at intervention was 23.22 months.
The diagnosis-to-intervention interval averaged 6.43 months.
A weak negative correlation was found between parental age and psychological inflexibility (r=−0.171, p=0.014).
No significant correlations were found between psychological inflexibility and EHDI timeline variables (all p>0.05).
Systemic, social, and cultural barriers are suggested as primary factors influencing delays in EHDI.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare providers should be aware of the significant delays in diagnosis and intervention for childhood hearing loss, even with high screening coverage.
Conclusion
The study highlights persistent delays in EHDI despite universal screening, with parental psychological inflexibility not being a significant factor.
A nationwide birth cohort found lower odds of short sleep at 1 year among infants breastfed during the first 6 months of life, regardless of formula supplementation.
