ABSTRACT
Language development may be affected by environment, intelligence and genetic factors, by auditory input received and by articulatory processes. Hearing loss can be classified into sensorineural or conductive deafness. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is caused by a lesion in the cochlear or auditory nerve and its central connections. Most cases are congenital; however bacterial meningitis is the most common cause of acquired SNHL. Conductive hearing loss is due to middle ear pathology, usually secretory otitis media. This is a common problem and parental smoking is a risk factor. The number of children with severe hearing loss requiring a hearing aid is 1.3 per 1000.
