Prevalence and Risk Factors of VDs Among Henan Opera Performers in Henan Province: A Cross-Sectional Study

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of voice disorders (VDs) and associated risk factors among Henan Opera performers in Henan Province.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 104 Henan Opera performers in Henan Province using an online survey. VDs were defined as experiencing one or more voice symptoms (such as hoarseness, vocal fatigue, etc) in the past three months. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data on demographic characteristics, professional voice use characteristics, and vocal health status. Chi-square tests and Firth logistic regression (to address complete separation in small sample analysis) were performed for statistical assessment.

The prevalence of VDs among Henan Opera performers in Henan Province was 77.9%. Multivariate analysis indicated that employment in private troupes (OR = 8.08, 95% CI: 2.54-33.79), smoking (OR = 11.83, 95% CI: 1.35-1560.34), and unhealthy dietary habits (OR = 3.26, 95% CI: 1.15-9.70) were independent risk factors. VDs caused significant occupational and medical burden: the medical consultation rate (89.5%), performance interruption rate (88.2%), and income loss rate (98.1%) among performers with VDs were all significantly higher than those without VDs (P < 0.05).

The study demonstrates a high prevalence of VDs among Henan Opera performers in Henan Province, with significant associations identified for private troupe affiliation, smoking, and unhealthy dietary habits. Immediate interventions should include smoking cessation programs and dietary guidance for Henan Opera performers, and specialized vocal training for private troupe performers. Further longitudinal research is necessary to establish causal relationships and to assess the effectiveness of these interventions.