School hearing tests do not detect noise exposure hearing loss

School hearing tests cannot effectively detect adolescent high-frequency hearing loss, which is typically caused by loud noise exposure, according to researchers. School screenings primarily focus on low-frequency hearing loss. This is logical for young children, who are more likely to develop low-frequency hearing loss due to fluid in the ear after a bad cold or an ear infection. Adolescents, however, are more susceptible to high-frequency hearing loss, usually brought on by exposure to loud noises, but the same tests are used on adolescents and young children.

Link: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/03/140320101433.htm

Genetic Studies Lead the Way to Understanding EVA

For several decades, researchers at the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) have been leading an effort to understand the genetic underpinnings of enlarged vestibular aqueducts (EVA), a condition associated with early hearing loss in children, and in some cases, thyroid problems in the teenage years.

Link: http://vestibular.org/news/05-30-2014/genetic-studies-lead-way-understanding-eva-childhood-hearing-disorder