VOICE CHANGES IN TEACHERS: OCCUPATIONAL RISK FACTORS AND PREVENTIVE STRATEGIES

Teachers are among the highest-risk professional voice users due to prolonged and intensive vocal demands in educational settings. Voice disorders in teachers can manifest as hoarseness, vocal fatigue, pitch changes, throat discomfort, and in severe cases, nodules or polyps. Occupational voice strain not only affects professional performance but also reduces quality of life, increases absenteeism, and may lead to long-term vocal pathology if unaddressed. Contributing factors include extended speaking duration, inadequate vocal technique, background noise, classroom acoustics, psychological stress, and limited opportunities for voice rest. Despite these risks, awareness of vocal hygiene practices and preventive strategies remains insufficient among educators. Preventive rehabilitation, including voice therapy, vocal warm-ups, hydration, and ergonomic adjustments, can mitigate the onset of voice disorders.