APD in Pacific Island children
An Auckland study has found that Pacific Island children have a high rate of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). The disorder affects how the brain processes speech, and can impair literacy and learning. Among the general population the incidence is estimated at 5–15% of children, but among the 920 children in the study, it was much higher at 35.5%.
Having monitored the children from birth in 2000, the researchers have released their findings after the children were assessed at age 11. More than 25% failed a hearing test in one or both ears – hearing loss and glue ear were the main causes of impaired hearing.
Leading the team are Professor Suzanne Purdy of Auckland University and Professor Janis Paterson of AUT University. Professor Purdy said the reasons for the high rate of APD could include a history of glue ear, genetic factors, nutrition and infections. She says the major issue is that diagnosis and treatment are not available in the Counties Manukau District Health Board (CMDHB) area, where most of the children live. However, she is discussing the problem with CMDHB staff and Manurewa electorate MP Louisa Wall.
A pilot study is now under way at a Manurewa primary school to improve teachers’ knowledge of APD and use of strategies to support children with APD in the classroom.
As a result of advocacy from The National Foundation for the Deaf, the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education are reviewing their policies on managing APD in New Zealand children.
