A Prospective Study to Evaluate the Impact of Cancer Directed Treatment on Quality of Life in Head and Neck Cancer Patients.

Abstract

Introduction: Head and neck cancer and its treatment play a significant role in a patient's quality of life. The evaluation of the quality of life is important for the better survival of the patients. The study aims to determine how the different treatment modalities impact the quality of life in head and neck cancer patients.

Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted among the 400 HNC patients. Patients who were newly diagnosed with cancer (treatment not yet started) and those who received cancer-directed treatment were enrolled. The quality of life was assessed by using European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer: Core (QLQ-C30) and Head and Neck specific module (QLQ-H&N35).

Results: Tumor involving pharynx and larynx had significantly worst score as compared to cancer of oral cavity. The quality of life deteriorated in the advanced stage of cancer as compared to the initial stage. Problems related to social contact were significantly more in patients treated with surgical treatment. The symptoms scores were high in patients receiving chemoradiation therapy. Patients treated with single treatment had a significantly better score on most scales than patients receiving combined treatment modality. Performance status was a strong predictor of quality of life.

Conclusion: The result of the study concludes that the many domains of quality of life were significantly affected in patients receiving cancer-directed treatment. Assessment of quality of life will help reduce the impact of therapeutic complications and thus improve patients' quality of life.