Abstract
IntroductionHead and neck cancer represents 3% of all the types of malignant neoplasms and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is responsible for 90% of these cases. There have been some studies evaluating the quality of life of these patients, but little is known about the physical and emotional effects on their caregivers. ObjectiveTo evaluate the quality of life of patients with head and neck cancer and their caregivers by applying validated questionnaires. MethodsThirty patients with advanced tumors (SCC stage III or IV) and their 30 caregivers were included. Specific questionnaires (Coop/Wonca, EORTC QLQ–C30, EORTC H&N35, Coop/Wonca, and Caregiver Strain Index – CSI) were applied during routine medical consultations. ResultsOf the 30 patients, 28 were males and 25 had stage IV tumors, with mean age of 56.6 years. 36.7% had the primary tumor in the oropharynx and 70% reported pain. The functional cognitive, physical, and emotional scales were the most affected. Pain, fatigue, and sleep disorders were the most prevalent symptoms. Of the 30 caregivers, 23 were females and 70% were the primary caregivers. 36.7% of the caregivers had high levels of stress, mainly related to the feeling of incapacity. The comparison between patients and caregivers demonstrated that the two groups had similar quality of life impairment: physical fitness (p=0.487), mental health (p=0.615), daily activities (p=0.793), social activities (p=0.301), changes in health (p=0.649), and overall health (p=0.168). ConclusionQuality of life impairment is similar between patients and their caregivers. This result demonstrates that not only the patients show quality of life impairment, but their caregivers also have it and at similar proportions.
Highlights
Head and neck cancer represents 3% of all the types of malignant neoplasms and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is responsible for 90% of these cases
This study aims to evaluate the quality of life of patients with head and neck cancer and comparatively, of their caregivers, based on the application of validated questionnaires
Based on the application of the identification and quality of life questionnaires during the interviews, the study showed that the quality of life of both patients with head and neck cancer and their caregivers showed quality of life impairment, with no significant differences between the groups
Summary
Head and neck cancer represents 3% of all the types of malignant neoplasms and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is responsible for 90% of these cases. There have been some studies evaluating the quality of life of these patients, but little is known about the physical and emotional effects on their caregivers. Objective: To evaluate the quality of life of patients with head and neck cancer and their caregivers by applying validated questionnaires. Head and neck cancer accounts for 3% of all types of malignant neoplasms, and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) represents 90% of the histological subtypes of these neoplasms. Many studies have shown impairment related to feeding, nutrition, and pain aspects and, to a great extent, psychological problems in patients with head and neck cancer; the latter is common during the diagnosis and treatment and for many subsequent years.[3]. The family has physical and emotional needs, in addition to the need for information about patient care.[4]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
