Prevalence and associated factors of voice symptoms among Mexican prospective teachers: A cross-sectional study

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of voice symptoms among Mexican prospective teachers.

This cross-sectional study was conducted in the fall of 2023. Data was collected from all four years of the teacher education program offered by participating institutions. A total of 1233 students participated across the four institutions. Before completing the questionnaire, students read and virtually signed an informed consent form outlining the study's details and their rights. A self-report web-based questionnaire was developed for this study consisting of the following: (1) demographic details, (2) educational details, (3) lifestyle habits, and (4) use of health care services due to voice symptoms. Further, participants completed the Spanish version of the Voice Symptom Scale (VoiSS), the Vocal Fatigue Index (VFI), and the Screening Index for Voice Disorder (SIVD).

The prevalence of voice symptoms varied depending on the instrument used. The perception of dust in the practicum placement was the most significant teaching-training condition associated with voice symptoms reported using different scales (VoiSS, OR = 2.00; SIVD, OR = 2.08) and being statistically associated with tiredness of voice (Factor 1 of the VFI) (OR = 1.72). Prospective teachers in their third year of training or who were starting their practicum placement were more likely to report voice symptoms measured using all the scales (VFI Factors 1 and 2, VoiSS, and SIVD).

Before experiencing the full occupational vocal demands of the teaching profession, prospective teachers may be exposed to teaching-training conditions that increase their likelihood of reporting voice symptoms. There may be an opportunity for implementing early intervention and education programs by identifying associated demands and the prevalence of voice symptoms during prospective teachers' training.