Self-reported voice problems among three groups of professional singers

Area of Science:

• Vocal Health
• Occupational Health
• Performing Arts Medicine

Background:

• Professional singers are at risk for voice disorders due to demanding vocal use.
• Understanding the prevalence of vocal impairment in different singing professions is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the prevalence and nature of vocal health problems between professional singers and non-singers.
• To investigate differences in vocal impairment, disability, and handicap across singing genres.

Main Methods:

• A vocal health questionnaire was administered to opera, musical theatre, and contemporary singers, alongside a matched group of non-singers in Melbourne.
• Data collected included biographical details, voice use behaviors, and vocal health experiences over the past 12 months.

Main Results:

• Singers reported significantly higher rates of diagnosed vocal conditions (44% vs. 21%) and vocal disability (69% vs. 41%) compared to non-singers.
• No significant differences in vocal impairment, disability, or handicap were found among opera, musical theatre, and contemporary singers.

Conclusions:

• Professional singing is associated with a higher risk of vocal health problems compared to non-singers.
• Vocal health interventions should prioritize professional singers, regardless of their specific genre.