More than 1.5 million people in the United States have Parkinson disease,
a neurodegenerative disorder with familiar symptoms of tremor, slowness
of movement and impaired balance. Less recognized is that 89% of people
with Parkinson's suffer from a Parkinson Related Voice Disorder, a
severe, gradual deterioration of vocal abilities that can ultimately
result in an inability to verbally communicate. Onset of the problem
may be so incremental that many patients do not realize they need
help until their speech has severely deteriorated, making treatment
even more challenging. Early intervention is essential in maintaining
the ability to communicate effectively.