Association between readiness for behavior change and complaints of vocal problems in teachers.

PURPOSE To verify the association between readiness to behavioral change and self-reported vocal problems of teachers in schools from the municipal education network of Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brazil. METHODS The URICA-VOICE scale was used to measure the motivational stages of 138 teachers. Readiness to change was the variable outcome, whereas the independent variables referred to sociodemographic, economic, occupational, lifestyle, general health, and teacher's own voice factors. RESULTS The majority (59.4%) of teachers were in the pre-contemplation stage of the URICA-VOICE scale. The variables use of medication, perception of voice failure, and demand for speech and language therapy were retained for the final model. CONCLUSION The low readiness to change showed the need for increased awareness of the risks and benefits related to the voice and general health. The results can provide public health intervention strategies that deal with individuals at various stages in the decision-making process.