Scientists are hoping that a voice test technique will prove crucial for sufferers of the neurological disorder.
Parkinson’s is normally only diagnosed once symptoms show – that is when it is already at an advanced stage where there is a lost of a significant number of brain cells. But researchers at Haifa University in Israel have discovered that by measuring tiny changes in patterns of speech, undetectable to the human ear, they can tell whether a seemingly healthy person is a sufferer.
They have developed a computer programme to identify a Parkinson’s ‘voice’ and could be used for screening those who are at hereditary risk of the disease or as part of a national screening programme.
Speech is affected by the disorder because it causes a deterioration of muscles in the neck and mouth – giving some sufferers a husky voice.
[Source]
Chapter: Parkinson's Disease :: 22 July 2010
