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Updated: Nov 13, 2025
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Effects of Surgical Masks on Cardiopulmonary Function in Healthy Subjects
Published on: February 12, 2021
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Voice Differences When Wearing and Not Wearing a Surgical Mask
Maria Luisa Fiorella1, Giada Cavallaro1, Vincenzo Di Nicola1
1Otolaryngology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
Journal of Voice : Official Journal of the Voice Foundation
|March 13, 2021
Summary
Surgical masks did not significantly alter vocal acoustic parameters in healthy adults. However, a decrease in vocal intensity was observed, potentially impacting speech audibility and increasing the risk of voice disorders with prolonged use.
Area of Science:
- Speech and Hearing Sciences
- Acoustic Phonetics
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Surgical masks are widely used, potentially affecting voice production.
- Understanding the acoustic impact of masks on voice is crucial for communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of surgical masks on vocal parameters (F0, intensity, jitter, shimmer, HNR).
- To assess the impact of surgical masks on voice and verbal communication in adults.
Main Methods:
- 60 healthy adults participated in the study.
- Vocal samples (/a/ sustained) were recorded with and without surgical masks.
- Acoustic analysis was performed using Praat software.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences were found in most acoustic parameters between masked and unmasked conditions.
- A non-significant decrease in vocal intensity was observed in 65% of subjects when wearing a mask.
Conclusions:
- Surgical masks do not significantly alter acoustic voice parameters.
- Reduced vocal intensity may affect speech audibility and social interaction.
- Prolonged mask use could increase the risk of functional dysphonia due to increased vocal effort.
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