Subtle Voice Changes May Indicate Increased Dementia Risk, Study Suggests
Research involving over 800,000 participants found that voice disorders, especially when combined with hearing loss, were linked to a significantly higher probability of developing cognitive impairment.
Changes in vocal pitch, volume, or clarity could be an early indicator of future dementia risk, according to new research. The study, published in the Journal of Voice, examined the link between voice disorders and cognitive decline.
Researchers from Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia analyzed data from 833,417 individuals aged 50 and older. They found that participants diagnosed with a voice disorder had a 58% increased likelihood of developing dementia or cognitive impairment compared to those without such disorders. This risk further escalated for participants who had both a voice disorder and hearing loss, with their likelihood of developing dementia increasing by 104%.
For all participants, the presence of a voice disorder, regardless of hearing loss, was associated with a 29% increased probability of cognitive impairment. Those with only hearing loss showed a 27% greater risk.
Robert Sataloff, a professor and chair at Drexel University College of Medicine, noted that the strongest association with dementia was observed in patients experiencing both a voice disorder and hearing loss. He also pointed out that individuals with a voice disorder and no hearing loss faced a greater risk than those with only hearing loss.
Examples of voice disorders include conditions such as laryngitis, vocal cord paralysis, vocal cord lesions, and spasmodic dysphonia. These issues can affect a person's ability to speak clearly and comfortably.
While the study highlights a correlation, researchers emphasize that a voice disorder does not guarantee future cognitive impairment, nor does it definitively signal the onset of dementia or Alzheimer's disease. However, they suggest that seeking treatment for vocal issues could also benefit brain health.
Difficulties with hearing and speaking may discourage individuals from engaging in social activities. Studies have indicated that social engagement can stimulate the brain and play a role in warding off dementia. Sataloff commented that it is