Dysphonia screening in vocally trained and untrained children

Abstract

Aim To evaluate dysphonia rate and impact of vocal training in vocally trained (VT) and vocally untrained (VUT) children using the Lithuanian version of Glottal Function Index (GFI-LT) questionnaire. Methods 262 children (age range from 6 to 16 years) were included into prospective study. There were 115 consecutive children from four Music Schools in the VT group and 147 healthy children from four Secondary Schools in the VUT group. Dysphonia was suspected when the GFI-LT score was >3.0 points. The rate of singing activity and vocal training type (KLASAK) were evaluated. The means GFI-LT and dysphonia rate were compared between VT and VUT groups. Correlations between the GFI-LT and the degree of KLASAK were evaluated to assess the impact of vocal training on dysphonia rate. Results 28 (10.6%) children from the VT and 15 (5.7%) from VUT group did not pass the screening (p<0.05). The mean GFI-LT scores in VT (2.4±3.1) and VUT (1.1±3.1) groups revealed a statistically significant difference (p<0.001). The rate of dysphonia in the VT group (5.2%) was significantly higher (χ2=25.6, p<0.05) than in the VUT group (2.1%). Significant correlations were found both between the GFI-LT scores and duration of attendance of Music School (r=0.39, p<0.001) as well as between dysphonia rate and voice load (KLASAK) (r=0.34, p<0.001). Conclusions Vocal training could predispose to pediatric dysphonia. The greatest attention should be paid to children who engage in the extensive singing activities. GFI is a valid and reliable test to screen possible voice disorder early.