Evaluation of the quality of life of individuals with head and neck cancer undergoing surgery and radiotherapy

Head and neck cancer (HNC) affects thousands of people worldwide. It is characterized by lesions in the oral cavity, larynx, and pharynx and is often associated with smoking and alcohol consumption. Surgery and radiotherapy improve survival but can cause sequelae that affect daily functioning and quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to assess QoL and functioning in individuals with HNC treated by surgery and radiotherapy. This descriptive, cross-sectional, prospective study enrolled 80 patients between July and September 2024. QoL was measured using the UW-QOL questionnaire, and clinical and sociodemographic data were collected through anamnesis. Statistical analyses were performed using the Friedman–Dunn test for QoL domains, and Fisher's exact test or Pearson's chi-square test for associations. Variables with p < 0.200 were further evaluated by multinomial logistic regression at a 95% confidence level using SPSS v20.0. The participants were predominantly male (70%), with a mean age of 61 years. Most patients (52.5%) reported low QoL; 43.8% reported moderate QoL. The most frequent complaints were fatigue (38.8%) and pain (20%). Low education, pain history, three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-RT) modality, and previous surgery were significantly associated with reduced QoL (p < 0.05), with low education being the main predictive factor. HNC significantly affected the QoL and functional status of patients. Rehabilitation focusing on physical and emotional support is essential for improving affected domains.

Descriptors:
Head and Neck Neoplasms; Quality of Life; Radiotherapy; Bread