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Prevalence and Predictors of Self-Reported Voice Disorders Among Palestinian University Faculty: Impact on
Raghd M B Dwikat1, Ponnusamy Subramaniam2, Yaser S Natour3
1Speech Sciences Program, Centre for Healthy Ageing and Wellness, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia; Audiology and Speech Sciences Program, Department of Applied and Allied Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus 44839, Palestine.
Objectives:
This study investigated the prevalence, predictors, and quality of life (QoL) impact of perceived voice disorders (PVDs) among university teaching faculty in Palestine, a population exposed to high vocal demands within challenging occupational and environmental conditions.
Study Design:
Cross-sectional study.
Methods:
An online survey was conducted among 502 faculty members from 14 Palestinian universities. Data included sociodemographic, occupational, behavioral, lifestyle, and health-related factors. Participants completed the voice handicap index-10 (VHI-10) and the voice-related quality of life (V-RQOL) questionnaire. Respondents were classified as having PVDs (VHI-10 > 11) or non PVDs (VHI-10 ≤ 11). Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of PVDs.
Results:
The prevalence of PVDs was 31.7%. Faculty with PVDs reported significantly higher VHI-10 and lower V-RQOL scores (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified significant predictors: high background noise, large class sizes, insufficient rest periods, high weekly teaching load, raised vocal intensity, exposure to polluted air, and involvement in secondary occupations. High anxiety, stress levels, and allergic rhinitis were also associated with increased odds of PVDs.
Conclusion:
PVDs are prevalent among Palestinian university faculty and negatively affect VRQOL. Occupational, environmental, behavioral, and health-related risk factors interact to increase vulnerability. These findings underscore the need for targeted vocal health promotion, improved acoustic conditions, and preventive voice care programs in higher education.
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