Occupational diseases of the voice

Occupational diseases of the voice fall into two different categories; the first being diseases resultant from conditions of an organ, and the second being functional conditions which may either be pure dysfunctions or occur together with an organic disease.

The types of person most at risk are those engaged in occupations in which the voice is preponderant, such as teachers, sales agents, barristers, politicians, lecturers, radio and television reporters, show singers, comedians, actors, and opera singers. The type of voice which is most liable to contract diseases of the vocal function is the "projected" voice, that is, the voice which is used with the deliberate intention of exercising an influence on others.