Abstract

SOUZA, Carla Lima de et al. Factors associated with vocal fold pathologies in teachers. Rev. Saúde Pública [online]. 2011, vol.45, n.5, pp. 914-921.  Epub Aug 05, 2011. ISSN 0034-8910.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0034-89102011005000055.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze factors associated with the prevalence of the medical diagnosis of vocal fold pathologies in teachers. METHODS: A census-based epidemiological, cross-sectional study was conducted with 4,495 public primary and secondary school teachers in the city of Salvador, Northeastern Brazil, between March and April 2006. The dependent variable was the self-reported medical diagnosis of vocal fold pathologies and the independent variables were sociodemographic characteristics; professional activity; work organization/interpersonal relationships; physical work environment characteristics; frequency of common mental disorders, measured by the Self-Reporting Questionnaire-20 (SRQ-20 >7); and general health conditions. Descriptive statistical, bivariate and multiple logistic regression analysis techniques were used. RESULTS: The prevalence of self-reported medical diagnosis of vocal fold pathologies was 18.9%. In the logistic regression analysis, the variables that remained associated with this medical diagnosis were as follows: being female, having worked as a teacher for more than seven years, excessive voice use, reporting more than five unfavorable physical work environment characteristics and presence of common mental disorders. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of self-reported vocal fold pathologies was associated with factors that point out the need of actions that promote teachers' vocal health and changes in their work structure and organization.

Keywords : Faculty; Voice Disorders; Working Conditions; Occupational Health; Cross-Sectional Studies.