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Early access to hearing is crucial for language development in infants. While a screening program exists which identifies infants with hearing problems shortly after they are born, some conditions leave the clinician unable to accurately find the extent of hearing loss leading to delays that affect language outcomes.
This research project aims to use a novel brain imaging technique that uses visible light to assess the hearing in these infants. When the amount of hearing loss is accurately determined, the clinician is then able to provide the best intervention to maximally restore hearing in the infant.
With the best and earliest intervention, the infant's quality of life from school through to work and all other social situations, will be maximised through improved life-long communication ability.