Nairobi: The government will roll out routine hearing screening for newborns from birth up to six months of age in a renewed effort to detect hearing impairment early, provide timely treatment and reduce the growing burden of hearing loss in the country. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale emphasized the importance of early screening to prevent lifelong complications associated with untreated hearing loss.
According to Kenya News Agency, Duale, speaking at the launch of the second annual scientific conference at the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH), highlighted that over one million Kenyans are living with hearing challenges. He stressed the need for early diagnosis and intervention, stating, ‘We want every child to undergo hearing screening at birth and continue with routine checks during the first one to six months of life. Early detection allows timely medical intervention, rehabilitation and support, giving children the best opportunity to develop normally.’
Duale further noted the lasting effects untreated hearing loss can have on speech, learning, and overall quality of life. He announced the government’s efforts to strengthen specialised healthcare services to ensure that more Kenyans can access quality ENT care closer to their homes.
KUTRRH has been identified as a key player in expanding specialised ear, nose, and throat (ENT) services through a structured universal newborn hearing screening service. This initiative includes the establishment of a hearing and audiology centre that will enhance patient care, training, and research. KUTRRH Chief Executive Officer Zainab Guyo stated that the hospital has expanded access to specialised ear and hearing care, with 100 patients already fitted with hearing aids.
Guyo added, ‘Through our ear and hearing care programme, we have identified 900 children with hearing challenges, with 100 already receiving hearing aids. Another 80 high-risk newborns have undergone hearing screening. Our priority is early identification and timely intervention.’
The conference brought together health experts, researchers, and stakeholders to discuss innovations, research findings, and strategies aimed at strengthening hearing care and other specialised health services in Kenya.
