Impact of Self-reporting Voice Symptoms on Occupational and Social Life among Stage Drama Actors and Their Knowledge on Vocal Hygiene Techniques, Habits and Treatment Options

Abstract

Stage actors are included in the category of heavy occupational voice users. Literature suggests that they are at a high risk of developing a voice disorder. Impact on occupational and social life was reported among people with voice problems. Actors showed insufficient knowledge on vocal care and the role of speech language therapist. This study was carried out to determine the frequency of self-reporting voice symptoms, to perceive its impact on occupational and social life, to assess the level of knowledge on vocal hygiene techniques, habits and treatment options among stage actors. This cross sectional analytical study consisted of 88 stage drama actors who had been engaged in stage drama acting for minimum 01 year and who practice and/or perform at least 10 days per month. Subjective data; obtained using a self-administered questionnaire and was analyzed quantitatively utilizing descriptive statistics. Sixty three (71.6%) actors reported with voice symptoms and the most frequent self-reported symptom was hoarseness (33%). Affect for stage drama acting (N=45) and complaints of voice changes during stage drama practices and/or performances (N=43) were the reported highly affected occupational items. Complaints of voice changes of actors, by family and/or friends (N=34) was the reported most affected social item. More than half of the participants had some knowledge about 8/14 items that were tested in vocal hygiene techniques and habits section. Knowledge about surgeries as a relevant treatment and speech language therapist as a relevant professional was less. Majority of actors reported an impact on occupational life (83.9%) and social life (68.9%) due to voice problems. Though actors showed knowledge on vocal hygiene techniques, habits and treatment options for voice problems; there were some areas which demonstrated limited knowledge. Higher levels of impact and less knowledge on vocal care strongly suggest vocal hygiene education for stage drama actors.