Occurrence and Influencing Factors of Oral Mucositis in Patients With Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study in China.

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the occurrence of oral mucositis in Chinese patients with cancer undergoing treatment and analyze its influencing factors.

Sample & setting: From November 2023 to March 2024, a survey of 208 patients with cancer was conducted.

Methods & variables: Data were collected through survey questionnaires and salivary pH testing. Demographic characteristics were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare mucositis occurrence, and ordered logistic regression was used to identify predictive factors.

Results: Among 208 surveyed patients, 56 (27%) experienced oral mucositis, with severity grades distributed as follows: grade 1 (n = 37, 18%), grade 2 (n = 12, 6%), and grade 3 (n = 7, 3%). Salivary pH level, dry mouth, mouth rinsing, and primary disease were identified as key factors.

Implications for nursing: Chinese patients with cancer have a high occurrence of oral mucositis. Lower salivary pH levels and higher dry mouth scores increase the risk. Oncology nurses can prioritize early preventive strategies, salivary pH testing and xerostomia assessment, and targeted hygiene guidance. A risk-stratified prevention model can be implemented to enable precision management of oral mucositis.