Author ORCID Identifier
0000-0003-1204-8493
Abstract
Although many studies note positive correlations between teaching professionals and voice disorder development, much of what is known is based on reports of elementary and secondary educators, not university professors. Few studies have sought to determine voice disorder prevalence and risk for university professors even though, as professional voice users, they are likely at high risk for voice disorder development. In the present study, 408 university professors responded to questions regarding general health, voice symptomology, and engagement in behaviors associated with voice quality and health. Almost 18% of respondents reported at least 1 consistent voice disorder symptom. Of these, hoarseness was the most commonly-reported symptom. Statistically significant differences between those reporting consistent symptomology and those who did not included feelings of stress/anxiety, medicine intake, and self-reported overall general health. Findings indicate the need for expanded study of this at-risk population and investigation into their access to voice-education and intervention resources.
Recommended Citation
Scheffel, Lucia and DeVeney, Shari L.
(2022)
"Prevalence and risk factors of voice disorder symptoms in university professors: A pilot study in Nebraska,"
Journal of Curriculum, Teaching, Learning and Leadership in Education: Vol. 7:
Iss.
1, Article 3.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/ctlle/vol7/iss1/3