Reflux symptoms in professional opera soloists

Area of Science:

• Vocal health
• Gastroenterology
• Occupational medicine

Background:

• Professions involving vocal stress, such as opera singing, are linked to a higher incidence of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (GERS).
• Gastroesophageal reflux symptoms can negatively impact vocal performance in professional singers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of self-reported GERS among professional opera soloists.
• To compare GERS prevalence in soloists versus matched choristers and control groups.

Main Methods:

• A validated questionnaire assessed GERS symptoms (heartburn, regurgitation, dysphagia, etc.) and lifestyle factors in 116 opera soloists.
• Opera choristers and control subjects served as comparison groups.
• Prevalence rate ratios (PRRs) were calculated, adjusting for potential confounding variables.

Main Results:

• Belching, heartburn, and dysphagia were the most frequent GERS symptoms reported by soloists.
• Opera soloists showed a significantly higher risk of heartburn and dysphagia compared to choristers.
• Obesity and late-night dining were more prevalent in both singer groups than in the general population sample.

Conclusions:

• Professional opera soloists have a predisposition to GERS, independent of their years of experience.
• Healthcare providers should advise singers on managing modifiable risk factors for GERS.
• Extended pharmacological treatment may be necessary for some professional singers with GERS.