Neurology
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Communication Disorders in the United States Adult Population: The 2022 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) Chuan-Ming Li* Chuan-Ming Li Howard J. Hoffman May S. Chiu Stephen M. Tasko Mabel L. Rice
The purposes of this study are to estimate the prevalence of communication disorders (CD) in US adults and to identify associated risk factors. The cost of lost or degraded employment opportunities due to CD has been estimated as 1.5% of the Gross National Product, or about $400 billion in 2023. A Voice, Speech, and Language Supplement was included in the 2022 NHIS, a nationally representative survey of the US population. The sample adults (n= 27,651, 18+ years) reported voice, swallowing, speech, and language disorders, along with age at onset, duration, severity, and healthcare visits for evaluation/treatment. Logistic regression was used to estimate associations between CD and risk factors. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, income, geographic location, body mass index, and general health status. The prevalence of those with CD lasting 1+ week during the last 12 months was 10.7% out of 260.5 million (M) US adults. The prevalence of voice disorders was 5.8% (14.2 M), swallowing disorders 3.5% (8.5 M), speech disorders 3.4% (8.3 M), and language disorders 1.9% (4.5 M). Of these affected individuals, 9.8% sought evaluation/treatment services from speech-language pathologists, doctors, or other healthcare professionals. Professional services for rehabilitation led to improved function for 48% and improved personal/social quality of life for 54%. Risk factors associated with increased CD included ever having had a stroke, arthritis, anxiety disorder, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, asthma, a weakened immune system, hearing difficulty, difficulty remembering or concentrating, prescription medications in the past 12 months for anxiety, depression, and other emotional or concentration difficulties. Voice, swallowing, speech, and language disorders are common among adults. To improve outcomes, we must increase awareness, access, and utilization of effective rehabilitation programs, which can significantly improve quality of life.