A mobile health device to prevent childhood hearing loss in low-income countries
mHealth Tympanometer: A Digital Innovation to Address Preventable Childhood Hearing Loss in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
This study is working on a new, affordable device that can help schools in low- and middle-income countries check for hearing problems in kids, making it easier to catch issues early and prevent hearing loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Little Rock, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10894832 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a mobile health tympanometer that can help identify preventable childhood hearing loss in low- and middle-income countries. The device aims to provide a low-cost solution for screening middle ear diseases, which are common in these regions due to high rates of infection-related hearing loss. By utilizing machine learning for diagnostic support, the tympanometer will be designed for use in schools, where traditional newborn screening methods are not available. The research team includes experts in audiology, data science, and engineering, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing this critical health issue.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years living in low- and middle-income countries, particularly those at risk for hearing loss due to infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are not children or those living in high-income countries may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of preventable childhood hearing loss in low-income countries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with mobile health technologies in improving health outcomes in similar settings, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
Little Rock, United States
- Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis — Little Rock, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Emmett, Susan Davis — Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis
- Study coordinator: Emmett, Susan Davis
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.