Prevalence of infantile dysphonia in the School of Early Childhood and Primary Education “Ensanche” of Teruel

Abstract

Introduction: Dysphonia is a frequent symptom in childhood, which generates concern in parents and can negatively affect the emotional development of children. Despite this, in Spain, we lack statistical data on its prevalence. Aim: The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence of dysphonia in school- age children enrolled in the “Ensanche” de Teruel school. Material and method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out. Our study population was children between 6 and 12 years enrolled in the “Ensanche” de Teruel school. For the evaluation of the voice, we used an analogue visual scale and the modified index of pediatric disability. Results: 200 children met the inclusion criteria, 103 were female (51.5%) and 97 male (48.5%). The age range was 7 to 12 years, 50.5% were between 10 and 11 years old. 57% of the parents identified voice alterations in their children for a total of 114 children, of which 17 children scored in pathological range (24 ±11) representing 8.5% of the total. Conclusions: We detected voice disorders in 57% of the children evaluated and of these, 8.5% obtained scores that would warrant a visit to the specialist.