Characterization of the Language, Speech, Voice, Swallowing, and Hearing Domains in Prader-Willi Syndrome: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Prader–Willi Syndrome (PWS) is classified as a rare genetic disorder with widespread developmental consequences, affecting multiple domains. This study aimed to characterize PWS in relation to swallowing, psychomotor development, speech, voice, language, and hearing in order to identify communication, feeding, and hearing needs. To this end, a scoping review was conducted across seven databases to identify articles published between 2000 and 2022. Thirty-two articles were selected from this search, from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Brazil. The reviewed studies report disorders in speech and swallowing associated with hypotonia, which results in difficulties in articulation and in the coordination of sucking, breathing, and swallowing. Additionally, the articles describe delays in language development, voice disturbances such as weak intensity and hypernasality, and generally normal hearing. It is concluded that, due to the range of disorders affecting psychomotor development, speech, swallowing, and language, people with PWS require early speech-language therapy intervention to support these areas.