Voice Data on Female Smokers: Coherence between the Voice Handicap Index and Acoustic Voice Parameters

Voice disorders are common in the general population, affecting daily communication for nearly one-third. Prevalence of voice disorders has been studied extensively in certain professions, such as teachers, as well as students. The impact on voice characteristics of different risk factors has been studied and also correlated to cigarette smoking. This study was designed to examine the relationship between Voice Handicap Index and acoustic parameters of voice university student smokers in Greece. One hundred and ten female non-dysphonic students (aged 18 to 34) that smoked were recruited. Participants answered the Voice Handicap Index and their voice was recorded. Acoustic analysis of voice characteristics was performed with Dr. Speech software system. Results indicated that some measures were predictive of overall, functional and emotional Voice Handicap Index scores. Other voice parameters had no cohesive or predictable pattern on Voice Handicap Index scores. Significant relationships between Voice Handicap Index individual statements and smokers' voice characteristics were also observed. Lack of correlation and subsequent clinical implications are discussed, as well as the direction for future research.