Evaluation of Voice Parameters in People with Head and Neck Cancers: An Investigational Study

Background: Head and neck cancer severely affects the voice and compromises a patient’s vocal independence. In the present study we have investigated the difference in three vital components of the voice - pitch, jitter, and shimmer in head and neck cancer patients and compared the findings with age matched healthy volunteers. Methods: Voice parameters were ascertained in newly diagnosed head and neck cancer patients and controls using voice analysis software (PRAAT) and a Dynamic Unidirectional AUD-59 XLR microphone in a sound proof voice recording laboratory. Results: We observed considerable changes in the three voice indices of pitch, jitter and shimmer. According to gender, there were significant changes in all three indices for men (P < 0.015 to 0.0001), whereas only pitch significantly changed in women (P=0.0001). Conclusion: The results have suggested that individuals with any form of head and neck cancer will have a degree of voice problems even before the initiation of cancer treatments. Voice assessment is a vital aspect to be considered before initiation of treatment.