Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the voice handicap index into Brazilian Portuguese

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to culturally adapt and validate the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) to Brazilian Portuguese. Psychometric analyses were performed on the translated version as described by the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Medical Outcomes Trust. The translated version was completed by 52 individuals with vocal complaints and by a control group of 64 subjects. Validation, reliability, reproducibility, and responsiveness were evaluated. All participants also completed a self-rating vocal quality scale. Statistical analyses demonstrated high internal consistency and high test-retest reliability both for the overall VHI score and for the functional, physical, and emotional domains of the VHI. A positive correlation was found between the VHI and the self-rating vocal quality scale. The subjects in the control group had lower scores compared with the subjects with voice disorders for the overall VHI score and for the three domains. Based on these data, the Brazilian Portuguese version of VHI is a valid and reliable measure for use in the Brazilian population.