This study wants to learn more about hearing loss using samples from a child, both of their biological parents, and/or other family members. We will use the samples to study heritable risk factors for hearing loss and changes in gene expression that lead to hearing loss and/or ear abnormalities.
If your child joins this study, we will collect a saliva sample by asking them to spit into a tube OR we will gently rub a swab in their mouth. We will also ask you/your child to fill out surveys about the health of your family. If your child has small or deformed ears and will be seeing a surgeon about this issue, we will collect a sample of tissue from their outer ear. This will be material that would have been thrown away after the surgeon was done with the procedure. If your child joins the study, you will not need to come to any extra study visits. We will perform the study activities at an already scheduled doctor's visit. We will ask you to stay an extra 30 minutes. Your child will be paid $10 if they join this study. Also, any parent or family member that joins will be paid $10.
Your child can join this study if they are younger than 18 years old, Hispanic, and have had hearing loss since birth. Your child can also join if they have a planned surgery for small/deformed ears. Both biological parents must be willing to also join the study.
Protocol Number: 21-3609
Regie Lyn Santos-Cortez, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator