Vox4Health: Preliminary results of a pilot study for the evaluation of a mobile voice screening application

Abstract

Mobile devices are rapidly becoming a part of everyday life as both communication and information tools. The use of m-health systems may be helpful for the collection of a set of data and information that can enable the individual to be proactive in the management of his/her own health, focusing on wellness and preventive behaviors, and so improving quality of life. We have realized an app, called Vox4Health, able to perform a fast, portable and simple voice screening test, due to the rapid increase in the incidence of voice disorders. The voice screening test is especially useful for teachers, singers, actors and other professional voice users who use their voice in their own activities, this vocal abuse possibly increasing the risk of suffering from dysphonia. Vox4Health analyzes vocal signals in real time, allowing users to self monitor the state of their own vocal health, thanks to an appropriate methodology. In this paper we present a pilot study conducted in two regions of Italy. The aim of the study is to evaluate the accuracy, in terms of classification capability, the usability and the degree of satisfaction with the developed app. The preliminary results show an average score of 81.3 for usability and average values ranging from 1.48 for dependability to 2.12 for perspicuity calculated in accordance with the User Experience Questionnaire.