A study on the IOS application “uHear” as a screening tool for hearing loss in Bangkok

Abstract

Abstract Objective This study was designed to compare the results of hearing tests performed using the uHear application with those of standard audiometry in Thai people in Bangkok. Methods From December 2018 to November 2019, a prospective observational study was conducted involving Thai participants aged between 18 and 80 years. All participants were tested using standard audiometry and the uHear application in a soundproof booth and in a typical hearing environment. Results This study included 52 participants (12 males and 40 females). The Bland–Altman plot with the Minimal Clinical Meaningful Difference of 10 dB between standard audiometry and the uHear in a soundproof booth found agreement at 2000 Hz. The uHear in a soundproof booth showed high sensitivity at all frequencies (82.5%–98.9%) and high specificity at 500 and 1000 Hz (85.7%–100%). uHear in a typical hearing environment showed high sensitivity at 4000 and 6000 Hz (97.6%) and high specificity at 500 and 1000 Hz (100%). When considering the pure‐tone average, uHear in a soundproof booth showed high sensitivity (94.7%) and specificity (90.7%), whereas, in a typical hearing environment, uHear showed poor sensitivity (34%) and high specificity (100%). Conclusion uHear was accurate for hearing loss screening at 2000 Hz in a soundproof booth. However, uHear in a typical hearing environment lacked accuracy. The uHear application in a soundproof booth can be used to screen hearing loss in some situations where standard audiometry is impossible. Level of Evidence II.

Keywords

• hearing loss
• screening tool
• uHear