1
|
Ting FN, Kiing JSH, Li WW, Chan YH, Loo JHY, Kang YQ. Prevalence and Profiles of Late-Onset Hearing Loss in Preschool Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Who Passed Newborn Hearing Screening in a South East Asian Population. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:3336-3346. [PMID: 37480440 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06060-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Prevalence of hearing loss in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is uncertain, as it is more challenging to assess hearing function in children with developmental difficulties (DD). We aimed to determine the prevalence and profiles of hearing loss in preschool children with ASD in a Southeast-Asian population who passed newborn hearing screening. A retrospective study of preschool children with DD (ASD, Global Developmental Delay (GDD), and Speech and Language Delay (SLD)) attending the Child Development Unit (CDU) at our hospital was performed. Three hundred and thirty-three children (ASD: n = 129; GDD: n = 110; and SLD: n = 94) underwent hearing assessments. Of these, 10.8% of children (n = 36, comprising 15 with ASD, 12 with GDD and 9 with SLD) had confirmed hearing loss. Hearing loss was predominantly bilateral in children with ASD and GDD; in those with SLD, unilateral and bilateral hearing loss were equally common. Conductive hearing loss occurred as frequently as sensorineural hearing loss in children with ASD and SLD, but was the dominant subtype in those with GDD. Moderate to severe hearing loss (n = 2) was noted only in children with ASD. Children with ASD and GDD required significantly more audiology visits and procedures to obtain conclusive hearing test results, compared to those with SLD. The need to identify hearing loss and monitor for resolution is particularly important in vulnerable populations with communication deficits, such as in those with ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fang Ni Ting
- Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jennifer S H Kiing
- Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Child Development Unit, Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wei Wen Li
- Child Development Unit, Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yiong Huak Chan
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jenny H Y Loo
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery (Audiology), National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery (Audiology), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ying Qi Kang
- Department of Paediatrics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Child Development Unit, Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bonino AY, Mood D, Dietrich MS. Rethinking the Accessibility of Hearing Assessments for Children with Developmental Disabilities. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06461-9. [PMID: 39023803 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06461-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
We aim to determine the accessibility of gold-standard hearing assessments - audiogram or auditory brainstem response (ABR) - during the first 3 months of hearing health care for children with and without developmental disabilities. Electronic health records were examined from children (0-18 years) who received hearing health care at three hospitals. Children with developmental disabilities had a diagnosis of autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or intellectual disability. Assessments from the first 3 months were reviewed to determine if ≥ 1 audiogram or ABR threshold was recorded. To evaluate differences in assessment based on disability status, logistic regression models were built while accounting for age, race, ethnicity, sex, and site. Of the 131,783 children, 9.8% had developmental disabilities. Whereas 9.3% of children in the comparison group did not access a gold-standard assessment, this rate was 24.4% for children with developmental disabilities (relative risk (RR) = 3.79; p < 0.001). All subgroups were at higher risk relative to the comparison group (all p < 0.001): multiple diagnoses (RR = 13.24), intellectual disabilities (RR = 11.52), cerebral palsy (RR = 9.87), Down syndrome (RR = 6.14), and autism (RR = 2.88). Children with developmental disabilities are at high risk for suboptimal hearing evaluations that lack a gold-standard assessment. Failure to access a gold-standard assessment results in children being at risk for late or missed diagnosis for reduced hearing. Results highlight the need for (1) close monitoring of hearing by healthcare providers, and (2) advancements in testing methods and guidelines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Yarnell Bonino
- Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences and Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1215 21st Ave South, Medical Center East - South Tower, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
| | - Deborah Mood
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neurodevelopmental Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Mary S Dietrich
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Nursing, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Al-Beltagi M, Saeed NK, Bediwy AS, Elbeltagi R, Alhawamdeh R. Role of gastrointestinal health in managing children with autism spectrum disorder. World J Clin Pediatr 2023; 12:171-196. [PMID: 37753490 PMCID: PMC10518744 DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v12.i4.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) or autism are more prone to gastrointestinal (GI) disorders than the general population. These disorders can significantly affect their health, learning, and development due to various factors such as genetics, environment, and behavior. The causes of GI disorders in children with ASD can include gut dysbiosis, immune dysfunction, food sensitivities, digestive enzyme deficiencies, and sensory processing differences. Many studies suggest that numerous children with ASD experience GI problems, and effective management is crucial. Diagnosing autism is typically done through genetic, neurological, functional, and behavioral assessments and observations, while GI tests are not consistently reliable. Some GI tests may increase the risk of developing ASD or exacerbating symptoms. Addressing GI issues in individuals with ASD can improve their overall well-being, leading to better behavior, cognitive function, and educational abilities. Proper management can improve digestion, nutrient absorption, and appetite by relieving physical discomfort and pain. Alleviating GI symptoms can improve sleep patterns, increase energy levels, and contribute to a general sense of well-being, ultimately leading to a better quality of life for the individual and improved family dynamics. The primary goal of GI interventions is to improve nutritional status, reduce symptom severity, promote a balanced mood, and increase patient independence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Beltagi
- Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Algharbia, Tanta 31511, Egypt
- Pediatrics, Univeristy Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Nermin Kamal Saeed
- Medical Microbiology Section, Pathology Department, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Manama, Manama 12, Bahrain
- Medical Microbiology Section, Pathology Department, Irish Royal College of Surgeon, Bahrain, Muharraq, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Adel Salah Bediwy
- Pulmonology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Algharbia, Tanta 31527, Egypt
- Pulmonology Department, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Reem Elbeltagi
- Medicine, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland-Bahrain, Muharraq, Busiateen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Rawan Alhawamdeh
- Pediatrics Research, and Development Department, Genomics Creativity and Play Center, Manama, Manama 0000, Bahrain
- Pediatrics Research, and Development Department, SENSORYME Dubai 999041, United Arab Emirates
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yan F, Shah A, Isaacson G. Tympanostomy Tube Placement in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Laryngoscope 2023; 133:2407-2412. [PMID: 36426745 DOI: 10.1002/lary.30494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The frequency of tympanostomy tube (TT) placement among United States children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not known. We explored the rate of TT placement in children with ASD in the United States and compared this to children without ASD. We further examined demographic and behavioral factors that might vary between the two groups. METHODS We utilized data from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) administered in 2014. This survey samples a representative population of patients across the United States and includes children under 18 years of age. The 2014 version of the NHIS survey was chosen as it identifies both autism and TT placement among sampled patients. Descriptive statistics and univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. RESULTS In total, 11,730 children (239 [2.0%] with ASD) were included. Overall, 34 (14.2%) children with ASD underwent TT placement versus 987 (8.6%) in children without ASD (p = 0.002) ASD diagnosis was associated with increased odds of TT placement (1.52 OR, 95% CI 1.04-2.22). Male sex, white race, and non-Hispanic ethnicity were also associated with increased odds of TT placement. Age at the time of TT surgery was not different between those with versus without ASD. CONCLUSION Children with ASD have an increased rate of TT placement compared to children without ASD. The reason(s) for this increased rate might include the following: higher rates of infection in ASD, over-diagnosis of ear infection or hearing disability in a difficult-to-examine population, and/or a predilection toward aggressive treatment in this at-risk group. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3-National database study Laryngoscope, 133:2407-2412, 2023.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flora Yan
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Arnav Shah
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Glenn Isaacson
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Departments of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery and Pediatrics, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Porter H, Buss E, Merchant GR, Leibold LJ. Observational Study to Preliminarily Characterize the Audiological Profile of Children With Down Syndrome. JOURNAL OF SPEECH, LANGUAGE, AND HEARING RESEARCH : JSLHR 2022; 65:4498-4506. [PMID: 36179216 PMCID: PMC9940888 DOI: 10.1044/2022_jslhr-22-00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Down syndrome occurs in one of 700 births, and high rates of hearing loss are reported in this population. This puts children with Down syndrome at risk for communication, learning, and social development difficulties, compounding known language and cognitive vulnerabilities in this population. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively characterize audiological profiles in children with Down syndrome, including the use of extended high-frequency sensitivity and speech intelligibility index assessment. METHOD Participants were 18 children with Down syndrome between 5 and 17 years of age. Audiological profiles were characterized using behavioral audiometry, tympanometry, and wideband acoustic immittance (WAI). Audibility was characterized using the speech intelligibility index. RESULTS Of the participants successfully completing behavioral audiometry, hearing loss of a moderate or greater degree was observed in one or both ears for 46% of the participants at conventional audiometric test frequencies and 85% of the participants at frequencies above 8 kHz. Seven children met criteria for amplification based on the speech intelligibility index, but only two wore hearing aids. Abnormal middle ear function was found in approximately 50% of the participants for whom WAI or tympanometry were successfully measured. CONCLUSIONS Consistent with prior research, high rates of hearing loss and middle ear dysfunction were observed. The high prevalence of hearing loss above 8 kHz suggests the importance of including extended high-frequency assessment in audiologic characterization of children with Down syndrome. Few children meeting audibility-based guidelines for amplification wore hearing aids, putting them at additional risk for speech/language and educational difficulties. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.21200422.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heather Porter
- Center for Hearing Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE
| | - Emily Buss
- Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | | | - Lori J. Leibold
- Center for Hearing Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Haller K, Stolfi A, Duby J. Comparison of unmet health care needs in children with intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder and both disorders combined. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2022; 66:617-627. [PMID: 35357055 PMCID: PMC9314009 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to assess the unmet health care needs of children with intellectual disability (ID) compared with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and whether access to health insurance coverage is a contributing factor. Children with ID may be masked in the health care system due to increased diagnosis and awareness of ASD. The needs, unmet needs and insurance coverage of children with ID alone, ASD alone, and co-occurring ID and ASD were assessed in this study. METHODS The 2016 to 2019 United States' Census Bureau National Survey of Children's Health was used to determine differences in unmet needs, care not received and health insurance coverage during the past year for children with ID and/or ASD. Adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for care not received were determined controlling for sex, insurance, race, age and parents' highest education level. RESULTS Children with ID were nearly four times more likely not to receive needed medical care as children with ASD. Results were similar for unmet hearing and mental health care. Children with both ID and ASD were more likely to have unmet health care but less likely to have unmet medical care compared with children with ASD alone. There were no significant differences for unmet dental or vision care. Children with ID were 3.58 (95% confidence interval: 1.6-8.0) times more likely to have inconsistent health insurance compared with children with ASD. CONCLUSIONS Children with ID alone are more likely to have unmet medical, hearing and mental health care needs than children with ASD alone. Children with co-occurring ID and ASD have a large amount of general unmet health care needs but less unmet medical needs. Children with ID are less likely to have consistent health insurance than children with ASD. This hinders the ability of children with ID to receive quality care. Further research is needed to determine if the diagnosis of ASD in children in the United States is negatively affecting children with ID alone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K. Haller
- Department of PediatricsWright State University Boonshoft School of MedicineDaytonOHUSA
| | - A. Stolfi
- Department of PediatricsWright State University Boonshoft School of MedicineDaytonOHUSA
| | - J. Duby
- Department of PediatricsWright State University Boonshoft School of MedicineDaytonOHUSA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Neave-DiToro D, Fuse A, Bergen M. Knowledge and Awareness of Ear Protection Devices for Sound Sensitivity by Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders. Lang Speech Hear Serv Sch 2020; 52:409-425. [PMID: 32997580 DOI: 10.1044/2020_lshss-19-00119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Sensitivity to sounds and atypical reactions to sensory input by individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been reported in the literature. In response to this sensitivity, some individuals use ear protection devices (EPDs) such as noise-canceling headphones, earplugs, or earmuffs to attenuate the perceived unpleasant sounds. Given the communication deficits often noted in this population and the essential role of hearing in speech and language development, the impact of wearing EPDs to attenuate sound needs to be explored. The purpose of this study was to obtain information from various stakeholders regarding their opinions about use of EPDs in individuals with ASD and perceived benefits and possible concerns of EPD use. Method A survey was constructed to assess the opinions of speech-language pathologists, audiologists, teachers, and graduate students about EPDs among individuals with ASD. A total of 255 professionals and graduate students completed the survey. Results The vast majority of respondents indicated a level of awareness of EPDs within this population. Regarding observed use of such devices, the majority of participants (66%) reported observing individuals with ASD using EPDs. The most commonly used devices observed were headphones (91%), followed by earmuffs (44%) and earplugs (33%). Respondents who had experience recommending and/or using EPDs with individuals with ASD were asked to report on major reasons why the devices were used and the perceived benefits and possible negative effects. Conclusions There appears to be uncertainty among various stakeholders of the benefits and possible negative effects of EPD use by individuals with ASD. Additionally, there is a dearth of research in this area, and the necessity for specific guidelines for recommending and monitoring EPD use is indicated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Akiko Fuse
- Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders, Brooklyn College, NY
| | - Michael Bergen
- Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders, Brooklyn College, NY
| |
Collapse
|