Relevance of Anatomical Differences Across Races in Speech Therapy Services

Abstract

Within the field of Speech Language Pathology, clients of all racial backgrounds seek services to address concerns with communication, cognition, or swallowing. When considering anatomical variation, are there relevant differences across races that should be considered? Clinical services must account for anatomical differences in determining the best treatment options. In this study, existing data about anatomical differences across races were reviewed. Significant differences across race and gender were found related to size and shape of the vocal tract, as well as in brain structures/physiology related to speech, language, and cognition. Functional differences in the vocal tract, such as total vocal tract volume, vocal tract length, and pharyngeal volume affect speech production variables, requiring clinicians to better understand the data they use to make clinical decisions. Anatomical and physiological differences in the brain may affect how clinicians interpret imaging and other data related to cognitive, speech, and/or language function. These differences are often not explicitly discussed in undergraduate courses in communication sciences and disorders, despite having clinical implications for speech therapy. Results of this study may guide faculty on choosing relevant information to include in coursework.