Vocal cord nodules hit mostly women

The majority of people suffering from vocal cord nodules are female, especially teachers, the National Health Insurance Corporation said Monday.

According to its report, 91,430 women were treated for vocal cord nodules in 2010, far outnumbering the 49,317 men who received treatment.

The number of patients receiving treatment each year has steadily increased: from 123,000 in 2006 to 141,000 in 2010. Women in their 30s accounted for the highest number followed by women in their 40s, women in their 50s, men in their 40s and men in their 30s.

By occupation, teachers had the highest number vocal cord nodule cases.

Dr. Shin Hyang-ae of Ilsan Hospital said, “Vocal cord nodules are mostly caused by excessive use of the vocal cords. Teachers, who deal with many students every day, tend to shout or yell, which makes the vocal chords go bad.”

(baejisook@heraldcorp.com)