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 New York Eye and Ear Infirmary Promotes Vocal Health for World Voice Day
New York, NY (April 2008) -- Every year on April 16, otolaryngologists (ear-nose-throat specialists) and other voice health professionals worldwide join together to recognize World Voice Day. World Voice Day encourages men and women, young and old, to assess their vocal health and take action to improve or maintain good voice habits.
The theme for 2008 is “Let Your Voice Be Heard,” and in New York City, that is doubly important for the hardworking professionals who use their voice for a living – singers. In recognition of that, The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary has scheduled a voice screening for 80 professional singers (sorry, the screening IS completely filled). In addition, professional singers may e-mail and join our mailing list for future activities and receive a Singer’s Resource Packet.
All members of the public can also protect the right to let their voices be heard by taking a simple quiz and using the suggestions on the Occupational Voice Health Flyer (PDF).
On a piece of paper, write down the appropriate response and then tally the total score when you are finished. |
| Within the last MONTH, how did the following problems affect you? |
0 = No Problem 4 = Severe Problem |
| My voice makes it difficult for people to hear me. |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
| People have difficulty understanding me in a noisy room. |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
| My voice difficulties restrict personal and social life. |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
| I feel left out of conversations because of my voice. |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
| My voice problem causes me to lose income. |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
| I feel as though I have to strain to produce voice. |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
| The clarity of my voice is unpredictable. |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
| My voice problem upsets me. |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
| My voice makes me feel handicapped. |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
| People ask, “What’s wrong with your voice?” |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
This total score represents your “Voice Handicap Index.” |
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|
What is Your Voice Handicap Index? |
| 20 - 29 |
Consider consulting a laryngologist*, especially if difficulties have persisted for greater than 2 weeks
|
| 30 and above |
Strongly consider consulting a laryngologist as soon as possible |
* an ENT doctor who specializes in throat problems.
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