Oral health awareness, self-care practices, and lived experiences among cancer patients in Ethiopia: a mixed-methods study.

Abstract

Introduction: Oral health is an important component of cancer care that is often neglected, particularly in low-resource settings. Cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy have the potential to significantly enhance the risk of oral complications that severely affect the quality of life for patients. This study is aimed to evaluate the oral health awareness, self-care practices, and lived experiences of cancer patients in Ethiopia.

Methods: A convergent parallel mixed-method study was carried out from February 6 to March 31, 2023, at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia. Quantitative data were collected from 422 cancer patients through structured interviews, and qualitative data were collected from 13 in-depth interviews using a phenomenological approach. Quantitative data were analysed using logistic regression, and qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results: Only 44.5% of participants had good oral health awareness, and 38.4% had a good oral health self-care practice. Younger age (18-40 years), early-stage cancer, and receiving information from health professionals or family/friends were significantly associated with good awareness. Age (18-40 years) and positive attitude were significantly associated with good practices. Qualitative findings revealed two main themes. The first theme, "barriers to effective oral health practices" is subdivided into three subthemes ('physical challenges,' 'cultural myths and misconceptions,' and 'psycho-socioeconomic strain'), and the second theme, "resilience in oral care adaptation" classified in to two subthemes ('modified oral care routines' and 'support systems engagement').

Conclusion and recommendations: This mixed-methods study showed suboptimal oral health awareness and self-care practices in cancer patients, influenced by age, cancer stage, attitude, and provider information. Cultural beliefs, emotional stress, pain, and resource deficiency also had an impact on oral health care. Regular oral health assessment and education must be integrated into oncology care, with training for providers to standardize care. Culturally appropriate materials in regional languages are required to dispel harmful myths. Economic obstacles can be overcome through subsidies or partnerships. Oral health is a component of national cancer guidelines as supportive care. The impact of these strategies on patient outcomes must be studied in future research.