This project focused on children who have an identified hearing loss in one ear (normal hearing in the other ear), known as unilateral hearing loss (UHL), and analysed the results of their newborn hearing screen. In Wales, all babies are offered a hearing test shortly after birth through the Newborn Hearing Screening (NBHSW) programme the aim of which is to detect permanent hearing loss in babies as early as possible. Ealy identification is important to ensure that support can be put in place to ensure that children have access to sounds, which supports their speech and language development.
By reviewing the records of 98 children diagnosed with a UHL within Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board between 2010 and 2025, this study found that children with a UHL were, on average, identified at around 5 years 8 months. In contrast, children with a hearing loss in both ears, who were identified directly as a result of referral following their newborn screen were identified at and average age of 11 weeks.
Most cases of UHL (over 50%) were picked up through the school entry hearing screening whilst only a small number were identified directly through the newborn hearing screening pathway. Most children identified with UHL were referred to a multi-disciplinary clinic to explore management options and receive further support, with few being fitted with hearing aids.
This study found that children with UHL are often identified later than those with hearing loss in both ears. While the newborn hearing screening in Wales works well for detecting hearing loss in both ears, some cases affecting only one ear may not be picked up until school age. Identifying hearing loss early can help children get the right support during important stages of their development. The findings from this project may help inform future improvement to hearing screening in Wales and support services for children.