A significant risk factor for congenital hearing loss is consanguineous marriage, which unfortunately remains a severe problem in the Middle East. This practice increases the likelihood of rare genetic disorders associated with hearing loss. Additionally, certain febrile infections during the first three months of pregnancy, the use of risky antibiotics during pregnancy or after birth, prematurity, hypoxia during the delivery, severe cases of jaundice, prolonged intensive care, meningitis, and severe febrile infections in infants also pose a risk for hearing loss.

Newborn hearing screening plays a crucial role in preventive medicine. It allows for the early detection of hearing loss that may go unnoticed for years. During this screening, a device delivers sound to the baby's ear, and the brain's response to the sound is monitored through electrodes placed on the skin. If the screening test is not passed after repeated attempts, the patient is referred to specialized centers for further evaluation and treatment.

Emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis of congenital deafness is vital.

“It is astonishing how much a simple screening can transform a child's life.”

If severe hearing loss is present, restoring hearing as soon as possible is essential to facilitate language development. The earlier hearing is provided, the better the potential for language development. Unfortunately, the window for optimal language development is limited. If hearing cannot be achieved by the age of two, it becomes increasingly challenging to attain normal speech.