Untethering audiology from the clinic: Evaluation of a new technology as a publicly accessible hearing screening tool

Millions of people across the world live with preventable and treatable hearing loss. It has been estimated that 1 in 3 people over 65 struggle with disabling hearing loss causing decreased quality of life, emotional, social, and communication dysfunction, and in increased risk of isolation and depression. A diagnostic audiometric assessment is considered the most effective means to diagnose hearing loss. However, conventional audiometry is not always readily accessible due to cost constraints, availability of trained audiological professionals, and social stigmatization. It is thus estimated that only 17% of adults who require hearing aids have pursued hearing loss treatment. It has become clear, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, that efficient, affordable, and accessible hearing screening tools are needed for use outside of clinical audiology settings. The goal of this project is to create a publicly accessible hearing screening test for little or no cost, allowing for ease of access to valid hearing health screening for remote self-assessment and in a wide range of healthcare and community settings. This study will modify the Digit Triplets Test (DTT) to improve sensitivity to specific types of hearing loss using a novel auditory modelling framework. We will use this model to predict audiometric assessment data based on results of the DTT and to determine how best to modify speech sounds to improve predictions. This test would enable non-clinical identification of communication barriers and suggest appropriate referrals in order to prevent further hearing loss and promote hearing health care. A widely accessible hearing screening tool would be an important step in improving the hearing health and related quality of life for millions of Canadians.