Speech Range Profile in Indian Adults

Abstract

This was a cross sectional study aimed to obtain the speech range (SRP) profile normative for the Indian adults in the age range of 18-40 years. 30 males and 30 females in the age range of 18-40 years with normal voice participated in this study. VRP Model 4326 of CSL 6103 from Kay Elemetrics was used for recording and measuring the SRP. The participants were asked to count as long as they could in one breath at their most comfortable pitch and loudness level. The highest frequency (maxf), the lowest frequency (minf), the maximum intensity (maxi), and the minimum intensity (mini) along with the frequency and intensity range were obtained from each participant. Statistical measures were applied for obtained data using SPSS 10.0 for Windows (SPSS Corporation, Chicago, IL). The mean SRP min-f, max-f and frequency range values were significantly lower in males when compared to the females. There was not much of variation in the mean SRP min-I values in both the genders. A higher mean SRP max-I and intensity range was obtained in males in comparison with females though not significant statistically. The normative data obtained on SRP in the adult males and females in this study offers a valuable tool in the assessment and management of voice disorders. Further research can be directed towards obtaining normative data in the other age groups and also on different vocal pathologies.