Hearing loss is one of the most common birth disorders in children. Newborn hearing screening is available through all major hospitals in the state in order to detect and treat hearing loss.

About 160 babies a year in Mississippi are either born with hearing loss or soon develop it. If hearing impairment goes undetected, it can result in delays in speech and language, and eventually handicap the child in school and social life.

Any hospital in Mississippi that delivers at least 100 babies a year can perform hearing screening. Early detection of this invisible disorder can greatly improve your child's chance of leading a normal life. To find out more about screening, hearing testing and other steps you can take, contact the Department of Health's Early Hearing Detection and Intervention program at (601) 576-7427, or call the toll-free number below.

Proper hearing development: our Hearing Checklist lists the milestones in hearing development from birth to 3 years of age.