Effect of diabetes mellitus on voice: a systematic review

A systematic review of literature was conducted to identify the influence of diabetes mellitus on voice. The search was carried out on PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL and Cochrane databases. Articles that discussed the effect of diabetes mellitus on voice were included in the review. Five studies were found to be suitable for inclusion. There is limited literature available on the effect of diabetes mellitus on voice. The studies pointed to a higher prevalence (12.5%) of voice problems among individuals with diabetes mellitus as compared to the general population, and higher gastro-oesophageal reflux disorder related symptoms. Further, higher reflux symptom index and voice handicap index scores have been reported in these individuals. The other voice related changes reported across the studies include the presence of laryngeal involvement, hoarseness, and increased strained voice. Even though there is limited literature available, it points towards the presence of voice changes among people with diabetes. This information would help professionals to better counsel and refer patients with diabetes to laryngologists or voice therapists if they complain of voice changes.