Self-perception of oropharyngeal cancer patients regarding the impacts of chemoradiotherapy treatments on swallowing and voice functions

Abstract

Objective

Understanding the effects of chemoradiotherapy (CRT) on the swallowing and voice functions of oropharyngeal cancer patients based on their reported perceptions, and how these are related to clinical and sociodemographic variables.

Methods

Thirty-eight oropharyngeal cancer patients treated exclusively with CRT were included. Patients’ perceptions were assessed using the EORTC QLQ-C30, H&N43, VHI-9i, and SWAL-QOL questionnaires. Descriptive, correlational, and inferential analyses were performed.

Results

The results from the QLQ-H&N43, SWAL-QOL, and VHI-9i revealed the existence of functional changes after CRT treatments that agreed with the results of clinical evaluations. Patients’ perceptions were associated with clinical variables such as FOIS, feeding route, solid-food consistency, and liquid consistency. Having undergone tracheostomy or having dysphagia or dysphonia was associated with poorer QLQ-C30, QLQ-H&N43, SWAL-QOL, and VHI-9i scores. In contrast, having undergone speech therapy was associated with having a better QoL as assessed by the QLQ-C30, QLQ-H&N43, and SWAL-QOL. Statistical analysis revealed correlations between scores from the QLQ-H&N43, SWAL-QOL, and VHI-9i, and scores from the QLQ-C30 with QLQ-H&N43 and SWAL-QOL. Statistically significant associations were found between the questionnaires scores and some sociodemographic variables (age, sex, and educational level).

Conclusion

Scores from generic QoL and specific symptom questionnaires were correlated with swallowing and voice function in oropharyngeal cancer patients. In cases with unfavourable scores, patients could benefit from early referral for the assessment of swallowing and voice functions to improve their QoL. The results of this study further indicate that there are certain clinical characteristics that, when present, should initiate this same course of action.