Key Points
- A paediatrician says early prenatal care can reduce hearing problems in children.
- Genetic screening helps detect risks before birth.
- Congenital ear defects can affect hearing from birth.
- Infections, injuries, and certain drugs can cause hearing loss after birth.
- Experts urge parents to avoid harmful substances during pregnancy.
Main Story
A paediatrician, Nkechi Nwibo, has advised expectant parents to prioritise early prenatal care and genetic screening to reduce the risk of hearing problems in children.
Nwibo, a Senior Registrar at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, shared this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria.
She explained that some children are born with hearing challenges due to congenital ear defects. These include conditions like microtia (underdeveloped ear) and atresia (absence of the ear canal), which can affect a child’s ability to hear properly.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, these conditions are structural problems present at birth. They can range from mild changes in ear shape to severe cases where the outer ear is missing.
Nwibo said such conditions may be caused by genetic mutations, maternal health issues like diabetes, or exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy.
She stressed that early medical care during pregnancy, along with proper screening, can help detect and reduce these risks before birth.
The Issues
Hearing impairment in children can happen before or after birth, and many cases are preventable with proper care.
Before birth, one major issue is exposure to harmful substances, also known as teratogens. These include certain medications, alcohol, and smoking, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Other risk factors include low birth weight and advanced parental age, which may increase the chances of complications.
After birth, children can develop hearing problems due to infections and other health conditions. Common causes include repeated ear infections, meningitis, measles, and mumps.
Head injuries, prolonged exposure to loud noise, and the use of certain drugs can also damage hearing. For example, medications like aminoglycosides are known to be ototoxic, meaning they can harm the ears.
Infections such as chickenpox and encephalitis can also contribute to hearing loss if not properly managed.
These multiple causes make it important for parents and caregivers to stay informed and take preventive steps early.
What’s Being Said
Nwibo emphasised that prevention is better than treatment when it comes to hearing loss in children.
She explained that early prenatal care allows doctors to monitor both the mother and the baby, helping to identify potential risks early.
“Genetic screening and proper care during pregnancy can go a long way in preventing hearing problems,” she said.
She also highlighted the importance of avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy, including alcohol and unsafe medications.
Medical experts, including those at the Cleveland Clinic, note that treatment options are available for children born with ear defects. These include hearing aids, ear molding for infants, and in some cases, surgery.
However, they stress that early detection is key to successful treatment and better outcomes.
What’s Next
Health experts are encouraging more awareness about prenatal care and child health across Nigeria.
Expectant parents are advised to attend regular antenatal check-ups, follow medical advice, and avoid harmful substances.
Early screening for newborns is also important to detect hearing issues as soon as possible.
With better awareness and access to healthcare, more children can receive early treatment and support, improving their quality of life.
Bottom Line
Hearing loss in children can often be prevented or managed with the right steps.
Early prenatal care, genetic screening, and healthy lifestyle choices during pregnancy play a major role in protecting a child’s hearing.
By taking these steps, parents can give their children a better chance at healthy development and a brighter future.
