The Prevalence of Dysfunctional Breathing Symptoms is Similar Among Amateur Choir Singers and Non-Singers: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study

Details

Supervisors

Reychler, Gregory

Faculty

Faculté des sciences de la motricité

Degree label

Master [60] en kinésithérapie et réadaptation

Abstract

Background: Although singing has shown several benefits in the treatment of various respiratory conditions, its effects on Dysfunctional Breathing (DB) remain uncertain. Thus the aim of this study is to compare the prevalence of DB symptoms among amateur choir singers and non-singers, as professional singers reported high DB symptoms rates. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional comparative study using the Nijmegen Questionnaire (NQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale - Anxiety Subscale (HADS-A), and the Multidimensional Dyspnea Profile. We also measured the Breath-Holding Time (BHT) and used the Breathing Pattern Assessment Tool (BPAT) in the choir group to compare them with reference values. Results: The analysis included 270 participants (180 choir singers, 90 non-singers). DB symptoms measured by the NQ and HADS-A scores were similar between the groups (p=0.501, p=0.693, respectively). However, while choir singers reported a higher sensory quality perception of dyspnea (mean±SD: 5.96±8.26 vs. 3.71±6.83, p=0.019), they had a lower negative emotional perception (6.04±9.54 vs. 9.47±10.59, p=0.008) than non-singers. In the choir group, the mean maximal BHT was 43.64 seconds (±18.98) and mean BPAT score was 2.7 (±1.6). Conclusion: Amateur choir singers reported similar DB symptoms than non-singers and fewer than professional singers. They reported a lower negative emotional perception (>MCID) but a higher, yet not clinically significant, sensory quality perception of dyspnea.