Self-perception of voice in individuals who report snoring

ABSTRACT Purpose: to evaluate the self-perception of vocal signs and symptoms in people who report snoring, analyzing how the intensity and frequency of snoring can impact voice-related quality of life. Methods: participants were assessed remotely regarding their voices (Voice-Related Quality-of-Life Protocol and Voice Symptom Scale), self-perception of snoring (the Berlin Questionnaire and the Stanford Snoring Scale), and obstructive sleep apnea (STOP-Bang Questionnaire). Data analysis involved data description, multiple linear regression, and correlation assessment (Pearson’s test) between variables. Significance was set at p-value < 0.05. Results: the study included 178 individuals divided into the snoring (SG) and non-snoring groups (NSG), according to the presence or absence of self-reported snoring, respectively. Multiple regression analysis indicated that group and sex were significant predictors of the Voice Symptom Scale score. The SG had a significantly higher Voice Symptom Scale score, suggesting a more negative self-perception of vocal symptoms. Conclusions: people who report snoring also report more vocal signs and symptoms. Snoring intensity correlates positively with vocal issues, suggesting that snoring may be related to vocal health.