Family Impact of Burning Mouth Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study Using FROM-16.

Abstract

Background: Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a chronic oral pain condition associated with psychological distress and reduced quality of life. Although BMS' impact on patients is documented, family member impact remains poorly understood. This study evaluated family impact using Family Reported Outcome Measure (FROM-16), explored family burden associations, assessed FROM-16 domains, and identified unmet support needs.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 26 patient-family member dyads from an oral medicine clinic. Family burden was assessed using FROM-16. Open-ended responses were analyzed thematically to characterize family experiences and support needs. Associations between family burden and demographic/clinical variables were explored using nonparametric analyses.

Results: Median total FROM-16 score was 5.5. Emotional burden exceeded personal/social burden, with worry, sadness, and frustration most common. Disruptions in family activities, eating habits, and family expenses were main social concerns. Lower household income was associated with higher burden scores. Qualitative findings confirmed emotional strain, altered social behaviors, and financial stress. Knowledgeable healthcare providers were the primary support source, although unmet healthcare, mental health, social, and treatment needs persisted.

Conclusions: BMS affects families through emotional distress, disrupted eating habits, and social activities. These preliminary findings support evaluation of family-centered multidisciplinary approaches to improve support for patients and families.