Vocal activity profile and dysphonia coping strategies in subjects with laryngeal cancer treated with radiotherapy

Abstract

Purpose: to verify the vocal activity participation and the dysphonia coping strategies of subjects with laryngeal cancer treated with radiotherapy. Methods: a cross-sectional trial involving 17 individuals with laryngeal cancer treated only by radiotherapy with vocal complaints after radiotherapy management. A sociodemographic questionnaire, the Brazilian versions of Voice Activity and Participation Profile and Voice Disability Coping Questionnaire protocols were applied. Results: there was a prevalence of male participants (n=16) and the mean age was 62 years. All were former smokers and 15 were former drinkers. Voice Activity and Participation Profile in mean scores was: overall,141.2, self-perception of vocal problem, 6.2, effect at work, 19.1, effects on daily communication, 60.5, effects on media, 20.1, and effects on their emotional, 36.7. In Voice Disability Coping Questionnaire mean scores were: overall,71.7, focusing on problem, 33, and focusing on emotion, 38.9. Conclusion: the participants had high Voice Activity and Participation Profile scores as compared to the literature scores considered for dysphonic individuals in general, and activity with effects on daily communication was the most affected. Voice Disability Coping Questionnaire demonstrates that these patients adopt dysphonia coping strategies with greater focus on emotion.