AAR Hospital has introduced ear, nose, and throat (ENT) tests for newborn babies to help in the early identification of possible hearing complications and related conditions.
The tests, which will be conducted at the Kiambu Road-based hospital, involve a general ENT examination to check for structural anomalies or infections in the ear, nose, and throat that may 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. Early intervention greatly enhances a child’s developmental outcomes and quality of life,” said AAR Hospital ENT specialist Dr Ian Macharia.
Approximately 1 in every 1,000 newborns in Kenya suffer hearing loss, while ENT infections remain one of the leading causes of morbidity in children.
Access to early screening and diagnostic services is however still limited, which underscores the importance of the initiative by the AAR Hospital.
The ENT tests typically involve newborn hearing screening using Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) or Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) testing to detect hearing loss.
Where hearing loss is established, interventions include fitting hearing aids, cochlear implants, or enrolling 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.
The lead pediatrician at AAR Hospital, Dr. Wakonyo Gicheru, says the ENT tests will be conducted on all babies born at the level five private health facility.
“Typically, newborn hearing screenings are easier to treat and more affordable. However, late diagnostics like ABR are costlier and more complex,” said Dr. Wakonyo.
AAR Hospital in December launched specialist pediatric service clinics to meet the rising demand for children’s healthcare.
The clinics offer a wide array of services ranging from regular check-ups and vaccinations to health screenings for children of all ages to promote early diagnosis and treatment of childhood diseases.
The increased demand for pediatric healthcare comes amid growing cases of childhood diseases, congenital disorders, and developmental delays, prompting the need for specialized services.
Early intervention has been proven to significantly improve long-term health outcomes.
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