Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening Program in Poland--10-year summary.

INTRODUCTION

The analysis was aimed to summarize the outcomes of Polish Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening Program (PUNHSP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The analysis comprised the population of children registered in the PUNHSP database between 2003 and 2013. The evaluated parameters included: the program coverage (percentage of children covered by the Program in relation to the number of births), results of screening tests at different levels of the Program and hearing loss incidence.

RESULTS

The average screened population was 96,0% with respect to total number of live births in Poland. Children requiring further evaluation represent annual average 8.5% of the study population. Among them, on average 55.8% were consulted in audiological centers. Hearing loss incidence was estimated to be 0,3%. The highest hearing loss incidence was detected in children which failed the OAE test with concomitant risk factors. 58.2% of children were fitted with hearing aids, 34.0% were referred for surgical treatment, and 7.8% for further rehabilitation.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the program evaluation confirmed its good efficiency. The coverage and hearing tests results are comparable to those from other countries conducting similar national hearing screening programs.