Neonatal testing

Deafness Research UK played a key role in the development of the Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) test which enables doctors to identify hearing impaired babies at birth.

This valuable test was developed following the discovery that healthy ears produce an 'echo' in response to incoming sounds.

Because the test can be performed quickly and easily using a tiny probe in the ear, it is a highly valuable screening tool even suitable for new-born babies.

Deafness Research UK supported the original laboratory research, the clinical studies that led to the development of this technology and funded the publication of the guidelines for hospitals to use the new test.

The OAE has now been introduced throughout the NHS ensuring that deaf children can receive the help they need during the most important years for the development of their language and communication skills.