Knowledge, attitude, and practice toward vocal fatigue among occupational voice users: a cross-sectional study

Background: Occupational voice users frequently face the challenge of vocal fatigue, impacting their overall well-being and job performance. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) toward vocal fatigue among occupational voice users.

Methods: This web-based cross-sectional study was conducted among occupational voice users between July and October 2023 in Shenzhen People's Hospital, utilizing a self-administered questionnaire to examine the KAP of vocal fatigue. A total of 920 valid questionnaires were collected with 248 males and 672 females, with 34.35% aged between 21 and 30 years.

Results: The mean (standard deviation) scores were 15.1 (5.3) for knowledge (range: 0-24), 31.6 (3.6) for attitude (range: 8-40), and 45.0 (7.5) for practice (range: 13-65). A graduate degree or higher was positively associated with knowledge (odds ratio [OR] = 1.596, P = 0.007). Negative associations with knowledge included being a salesperson (OR = 0.342, P < 0.001) or a lawyer (OR = 0.150, P = 0.001). Knowledge was positively linked to attitude (OR = 1.211, P < 0.001), while being a medical professional was negatively linked (OR = 0.390, P = 0.018). Positive associations with practice included knowledge (OR = 1.076, P < 0.001), attitude (OR = 1.106, P < 0.001), age 21-30 years (OR = 1.955, P = 0.011), age 31-40 years (OR = 2.123, P = 0.034), having one child (OR = 2.501, P = 0.016), and having two or more children (OR = 2.324, P = 0.030). Negative associations included being a medical professional (OR = 0.458, P = 0.046), being married (OR = 0.465, P = 0.031), former smoking (OR = 0.317, P < 0.001), and speaking 6-10 h daily (OR = 0.736, P = 0.048).

Conclusion: Occupational voice users had moderate knowledge, neutral attitude and moderate practice towards vocal fatigue. To alleviate fatigue and prevent the aggravation of vocal problems, recommendations include implementing tailored educational programs, conducting awareness campaigns, and fostering collaboration with medical professionals.