Only in Japan - The Karaoke Disease

And no, Mrs. Snider, if you get a sore throat, it does not mean you have "karaoke polyp."

Love, your son Robert.

Karaoke songs bring a lump to the throat-Life & Style-Health-TimesOnline:

"...the world of karaoke has been stricken by a fearful epidemic that threatens to silence Japan’s bars and the caterwauling of millions of amateur vocalists.

Japanese doctors report a surge in the condition known as “karaoke polyp”, a growth on the vocal cords caused by excessive warbling in bars and parlours. Formerly an affliction of middle-aged businessmen, the malady has spread among housewives and young people because of the continuing popularity of karaoke.

Ear, nose and throat clinics report a doubling in cases of karaoke polyps and the operation necessary to remove them. A surge of popular songs of especially high pitch, which put excessive strain on the vocal cords, is being blamed for the polyp plague.

The condition is exacerbated by the cold, dry Japanese winter, also a time for traditional end-of-the-year parties that frequently end in enthusiastic karaoke."