April 16th: The World Voice Day

Abstract

Although the voice is used as an everyday basis of speech, most people realize its importance only when a voice problem arises. Increasing public awareness of the importance of the voice and alertness to voice problems are the main goals of the World Voice Day, which is celebrated yearly on April 16th. The event started as a national initiative in Brazil in 1999 and quickly spread internationally. The article provides a brief history of the World Voice Day, together with basic background information. Copyright © 2007 S. Karger AG.