Disparities in deafness gene mutations between Han and Li ethnic newborns in Hainan, China: insights from a combined screening program.

This study showed a high prevalence of deafness gene variants, especially GJB2 c.109G > A, among newborns in Hainan, with clear ethnic differences.

Combined screening was effective in identifying genetic hearing loss, including delayed-onset and progressive cases that could be missed by hearing screening alone.

These findings support adding genetic screening to regional newborn screening programs and highlight the need for long-term monitoring of at-risk children.