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The University of Pittsburgh Voice Center is looking to recruit over 300 teachers from western Pennsylvania and surrounding areas to participate in the first ever large-scale controlled study of voice therapy in teachers with diagnosed voice problems.

Voice problems are a significant occupational hazard to teachers. Studies have shown that teachers present voice problems to their doctors in much higher numbers than other professions. Symptoms of a voice disorder can include hoarseness, frequent throat clearing and a weak or tired voice.

"The voice may be the single most important tool teachers have for doing their job," said Katherine Verdolini, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Communication Science and Disorders, University of Pittsburgh School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. "Teachers spend the majority of the day using their voice, and if they don't use it correctly they can develop hoarseness or other voice problems, which often means missed days of work.".

In the study, scientists will compare the effectiveness of two different types of voice therapy, each designed to strengthen and preserve the voice. Participants will receive instruction on one of these therapies in addition to information on taking care of their voice in general.

To enroll in the study, participants must be a full-time primary or secondary school teacher living in the greater Pittsburgh area, age 21 or older, have a voice problem lasting one month or longer and not known to have any degenerative conditions.

Knowing that voice problems often develop as the school year progresses, admission to the study will occur on a rolling basis.

For more information or to enroll in the study, contact the University of Pittsburgh Voice Center at (412) 647-SING (7464).

Did you know?
The University of Pittsburgh Voice Center is looking to recruit over 300 teachers from western Pennsylvania and surrounding areas to participate in the first ever large-scale controlled study of voice therapy in teachers with diagnosed voice problems.Voice problems are a significant occupational hazard to teachers. Studies have shown that teachers present voice problems to their doctors in much higher numbers than other professions. Symptoms of a voice disorder can include hoarseness, frequent throat clearing and a weak or tired voice.