WHEREAS, it is estimated that nearly seven million Americans suffer from some form of voice disorder; and

WHEREAS, voice disorders can have a negative impact on the everyday lives of those affected by inhibiting their ability to effectively express themselves; and

WHEREAS, there are many ways in which people can conserve their voice and prevent the development of voice disorders, including proper hydration, minimizing activities that cause vocal strain such as yelling, warming up before heavy vocal use, using appropriate breath support, using amplification, and paying attention to voice cues; and

WHEREAS, it is important to draw state, national, and international attention to the existence of voice disorders and the availability of services provided by otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons—the only medical doctors specifically trained to treat the ear, nose, throat, head, and neck—as well as other specialized providers dedicated to the amelioration of these disorders; and

WHEREAS, every year on April 16, otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons and other vocal health professionals across the globe join together to recognize World Voice Day, an international celebration of the human voice established to help raise public and professional awareness about voice disorders; and

WHEREAS, the Virginia Society of Otolaryngology and other organizations throughout the Commonwealth fully support World Voice Day events and activities and encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to take the time to assess their vocal health and take action to prevent the onset of voice disorders; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend the Virginia Society of Otolaryngology for its work to promote vocal health and good voice habits by supporting World Voice Day; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Virginia Society of Otolaryngology as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for the society's work to enhance the quality and safety of medical care in the Commonwealth.