Understanding how high-frequency hearing loss affects speech perception in children and young adults.

Investigating the contribution of extended high-frequency hearing loss to poor speech-in-noise perception in clinically normal hearing children and young adults.

NIH-funded research University of Cincinnati · NIH-10808983

This study is looking at how high-frequency hearing loss affects kids and young adults who generally have normal hearing, especially when they’re trying to understand speech in noisy places, and it aims to help those who often leave clinics without clear answers about their hearing.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Cincinnati NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-10808983 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how extended high-frequency hearing loss impacts the ability to understand speech in noisy environments among children and young adults with clinically normal hearing. The study will assess the relationship between high-frequency hearing loss and reported difficulties in listening through questionnaires and audiometric testing. By focusing on a population that often leaves audiology clinics without a clear diagnosis, the research aims to fill a critical gap in understanding auditory perception in younger individuals. Participants will undergo both standard and high-frequency hearing tests to evaluate their hearing capabilities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and young adults aged 8 to 30 years who have clinically normal hearing but experience difficulties understanding speech in noise.

Not a fit: Patients who have diagnosed hearing impairments or those outside the age range of 8 to 30 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and interventions for children and young adults who struggle with hearing in noisy settings despite having normal hearing thresholds.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in adults have shown a significant relationship between high-frequency hearing loss and difficulties in speech perception, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.