Voice Hygiene Programs to Prevent Voice Disorders in Teachers
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Abstract
Voice disorders are a significant issue in the teaching profession due to the continuous and prolonged use of the voice. Therefore, voice hygiene programs play a crucial role in preventing and mitigating this problem. This academic article focuses on reviewing the prevalence and causes of voice disorders among teachers, as well as effective strategies for maintaining vocal health and implementing voice hygiene programs. It analyzes approaches to reducing the risk of voice disorders, which include providing knowledge on voice care, modifying behaviors, and utilizing teaching technologies such as classroom voice amplification systems. Additionally, the article presents supplementary measures, such as limiting teaching hours and scheduling vocal rest periods during lessons, to allow teachers to recover their voices and reduce the long-term risk of voice-related health issues. Several studies have demonstrated that voice hygiene programs can significantly reduce symptoms of voice disorders and improve teachers' vocal quality. Thus, promoting voice hygiene training for teachers before they begin their professional careers is an essential strategy to ensure that they develop a foundational understanding of vocal health and can effectively prevent future problems. Furthermore, the article discusses the role of school administrators in supporting policies that promote teachers' vocal health, highlighting this as a key measure that should be further implemented to ensure the long-term well-being of teachers' voices.
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