The weight loss predicts the function impairment 1 month after surgery in head and neck cancer patients with surgical treatment

Abstract

Objective To explore the prediction of weight loss to the function 1 month after surgery in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients with surgical treatment. Methods During August to November 2017, 122 HNC patients from a tertiary hospital in Chengdu were included and investigated by the General Information Questionnaire and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30. Results 1 month after surgery, the function scores of HNC patients ranged from 86.67(73.33, 93.33) to 100.00(100.00, 100.00), and the physical function score was the lowest. Patients with weight loss during hospitalization had lower score in physical, role and social function (P<0.05). According to the results of Logistic regression analysis, age (OR=6.262, P<0.05) and Weight loss during hospitalization (OR=4.363, P<0.05) were risk factors for the physical function of HNC patients 1 month after surgery. For social function 1 month after surgery, weight loss during hospitalization (OR=3.306, P<0.05) was the risk factor. Conclusions Weight loss during hospitalization in HNC patients with surgical treatment can predict the impairment of function 1 month after surgery. Healthcare providers should pay more attention to perioperative nutritional problems of HNC patients, especially the elder patients, and take effective interventions to control the weight during hospitalization to improve patients′ function and quality of life. Key words: Head and neck; Weight loss; Function