Exploring Knowledge Attitude and Experiences Regarding Infant Hearing Impairment among Mothers of Infants in Chennai Tamilnadu

Objective: This study intends to explore mothers’ knowledge, beliefs and exposure concerning infant hearing loss in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.  Methodology: A Cross-sectional survey lasting for 2 months conducted at Government Medical College & Hospital, Omandurar Government Estate Chennai. The study involved 262 conveniently selected mothers of infants attending the tertiary care centre. A structured interviewer administered questionnaires were used to collect data which were prepared in English and translated into Tamil. Thereafter, data was entered into a Google form for statistical analysis purposes.  Results: Demographics: Most of the participants came from lower middle-class (46.2%) and upper lower-class (29.0%) backgrounds, with the majority being Hindu (82.4%). The most common occupation among family heads was skilled workers in shops and markets (30.9%).  Knowledge: The participants showed high awareness of risk factors like a family history of hearing loss (58.8%) and maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy (58.8%). However, they had low awareness of maternal infections during pregnancy and complications during delivery.  Awareness of Support Services: The participants had low awareness of support groups (59.2%), auditory verbal therapy (52.7%), and government programs (51.1%). On the other hand, they had high awareness of technological aids (80%).  Attitudes: The participants displayed positive attitudes, with 78.6% believing that education could dispel superstitions, 76.7% being willing to support awareness initiatives, and 84.4% believing that increased awareness could lead to better outcomes.Training: 80% of the mothers had not received any formal education or training on infant hearing impairment.Statistical Analysis: The analysis was conducted using SPSS, with significance set at P<0.05 (two-tailed). Significant associations were found between knowledge and socioeconomic status, religion, occupation, and education.  Conclusion: The findings highlight significant gaps in knowledge and awareness about infant hearing impairment among mothers, despite their positive attitudes towards early identification and intervention. These results emphasize the need for targeted educational programs to improve understanding and support for hearing-impaired infants. Further research is recommended in more diverse and rural settings to enhance generalizability.