Risks associated include not being able to participate in noisy environments which can often result in depression and anxiety.” “Those with APD often develop issues with language development, hearing in noise, and sound localization. Pursuing treatment for APD as early as possible is imperative, McCullagh explains, because hearing is vital to social and educational interactions. These include environmental modifications, addressing functional deficits, and improving listening and spoken language comprehension. There are no cures for APD, but there are many treatments that aim to improve the effectiveness of everyday communication. I am hopeful that future scientific advancements will better the lives of veterans and all Americans.” Army Colonel John Dillard of HHF’s Board of Directors remarks, “It is truly unfortunate that our veterans, after making such honorable sacrifices, are forced to live with APD, often alongside tinnitus and/or hearing loss. HHF’s ERG recipient Edward Bartlett, Ph.D., explains that the changes to the central auditory system may account for the behavioral issues that veterans experience, such as problems with memory, learning, communication, and emotional regulation. An estimated 15% of all returning military personnel live with APD. Military veterans who have been repeatedly exposed to blasts are another community disproportionately affected by APD. Older adults, who are more susceptible to some cognitive decline, are also at greater risk for APD. HHF Emerging Research Grants (ERG) recipient Elizabeth McCullagh, Ph.D.’s 2017 published work in The Journal of Comparative Neurology examines the strong connection between Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), the most common genetic form of autism, and difficulties with sound localization.Īdditionally, APD is prevalent in individuals with neurological problems, including those who have experienced head injuries or strokes. APD is commonly misdiagnosed as ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, or hearing loss.ĭemographically, APD is a common secondary diagnosis for children with autism most children diagnosed with autism have auditory processing disorders or auditory difficulties. They show delayed responses to verbal requests and instructions and will often ask someone to repeat what has been said. Individuals with APD have trouble distinguishing between words or syllables that sound alike (auditory discrimination) and recalling what they heard (poor auditory memory).

It is vital to review the symptoms, demographics, and treatments of APD, should you suspect it in yourself or a loved one.

Individuals with APD are often unable to hear sounds as words and have learning problems, including difficulty in reading, spelling, and language comprehension. In the U.S., it is estimated five percent of school-age children, or 2.5 million children, have APD.

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