Swallowing and quality of life outcomes early after radiation therapy in head and neck cancer patients

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to determine the changes in swallowing function and quality of life in early period a er radiotherapy in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. Methods: Fourty patients with HNC were included in the study. Swallowing function was evaluated by Modified Barium Swallowing Study. Penetration-Aspiration Scale was used to determine the penetration aspiration severity. European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) and European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer, Quality of Life Assessments in Head and Neck Cancer (EORTC QLQ-H&N35) which are specific to cancer patients with acceptable validity and reliability were used for quality of life assessment. All evaluations were performed three times including before radiotherapy, 1 and 3 months a er radiotherapy. Results: The aspiration severity were gradually increased a er radiotherapy (p 0.0166). Pain and fee - ling illness decreased (p<0.001), swallowing problems, dry mouth, sticky saliva (p<0.001), teeth, mouth-opening problems (p<0.016) increased a er radiotherapy. There was a moderate, negative correlation between aspiration severity and general health status scale (p<0.001). There was a moderate, positive correlation between aspiration severity and symptom scale, swallowing ability, social eating, dry mouth, sticky saliva and coughing (p<0.05). Discussion: It can be concluded that swallowing function and swallowing related quality of life parameters were a ected negatively in the early period a er radiotherapy despite no change in general quality of life perception. It is important for clinicians to be aware of swallowing disorders and its e ects on quality of life in the early period to prevent patients from potential long-term e ects of swallowing disorders on general quality of life.