Effects of exposure to sulfur mustard on speech aerodynamics

Sulfur mustard is an alkylating agent with highly cytotoxic properties even at low exposure. It was used widely against both military and civilian population by Iraqi forces in the Iraq–Iran war (1983–1988). Although various aspects of mustard gas effects on patients with chemical injury have been relatively well characterized, its effects on speech are still evolving. We evaluated aerodynamics of speech in male patients following sulfur mustard inhalation. In a case-control study patients with chemical injuries (n = 19) along with age and sex-matched healthy control group (n = 20) were selected. Aerodynamic analyses were performed by using the Glasgow Airflow Measurement System (known as ST1 dysphonia). Results indicated that except mean flow rate, there were statistically significant differences in vital capacity, phonation time, phonation volume, vocal velocity index, total expired volume and phonation quotient of patients between experimental and control groups (P < 0.05). This study demonstrated mustard gas can impair different parameters of speech aerodynamics.Learning outcomes: As a result of this activity, the reader will be able to describe: (1) the evaluation of air flow in relation to speech system dysfunction and efficiency; (2) the effect of sulfur mustard known as mustard gas on respiratory physiology.

Research highlights► Sulfur mustard known as mustard gas is one of the major chemical warfare agents. ► We evaluated speech aerodynamics in patients following sulfur mustard inhalation. ► We found mustard gas can impair different parameters of speech aerodynamics. ► Mustard gas can decrease respiratory capacity to support breathing for speech.