Assessment of Head and Neck Cancer Patient’s Co-Morbidity in Accordance to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health

Abstract

Background: Head and neck cancers are the most common cancers in developing countries, especially in South Asia. The international classification of functioning, disability and health core set for head and neck cancers (ICF-HNC) covers the typical array of problems in functioning, in patients suffering from head and neck cancer. Objectives: To assess the head and neck cancer patient’s co-morbidity using the ICF-HNC as a reference. Methods: Cross sectional multi-centric study at three different hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan. Data collection included structured question and answer sessions that were carried out by a single researcher, according to the ICFHNC checklist. Results: Of the 325 patients, 258 (about 80%) experienced complete problems related to mouth function. The study also demonstrated significant number of patients (187) who had problems related to activity and social functioning. Conclusion: The ICF comprehensively address and structures head and neck cancer patient’s problems. Societal and kindred support may well be purposely incorporated in rehabilitation plan of HNC sufferers.