Research>

 Research Projects

In addition to supporting the implementation of state-based tracking and surveillance systems, CDC EHDI actively supports research efforts to:

• Use information gained through EHDI programs to identify causes of hearing loss

• Determine long-term outcomes of early identification and related family issues

• Asses the effectiveness and cost of EHDI programs

• Collect information on referral rates from EHDI programs

• Increase physician awareness and involvement

Integration Early Hearing Detection and Intervention and Newborn Screening Programs:  Develop ways of integrating Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) with the NBS program and to do prospective follow‑up of cohorts of newborns who are deaf or hard of hearing, hemoglobinopathies, phenylketonuria, and other disorders identified through NBS.

Etiology of Hearing Loss: Evaluate all infants with a unilateral or bilateral hearing loss of any degree (mild to profound) in an attempt to determine the causes.

Cost of Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Programs: Determine the economic costs associated with EHDI programs and to assess the impact of screening and diagnostic procedures on parents and families.

Efficacy of Otoacoustic Emissions/Automated Auditory Brainstem Response Protocol in Identifying Hearing Loss: Investigate the efficacy of the OAE/AABR screening protocol in identifying hearing loss.  

Efficacy of Early Identification of and Intervention for Congenital Hearing Loss:  Investigate the effectiveness of early identification and intervention of infants and children with hearing loss in terms of their long-term communication, cognitive, and social outcomes.

Psychological and Family Issues Project: Assess the psychoemotional impact of false positive hearing screening results on families, including the potential for vulnerable child syndrome.

Assessment of Loss to Follow-Up: Identify factors or barriers responsible for loss to follow-up in EHDI programs and develop successful and innovative strategies that will reduce loss to follow-up. 

AAP Champion Project:  Increase the awareness and involvement of physicians with EHDI programs, strengthen state policy related to EHDI, and engage other medical organizations in improving EHDI programs at the national and state levels.

If you have any questions about these projects please email EHDI at: ehdi@cdc.gov

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This page was last updated September 02, 2004

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities

The National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD) promotes the health of babies, children, and adults, and enhances the potential for full, productive living.  Our work includes identifying the causes of birth defects and developmental disabilities, helping children to develop and reach their full potential, and promoting health and well-being among people of all ages with disabilities.