The treatment of head and neck cancer by Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy, or the combination of both has dire consequences for the patient during oral health procedures.
Objective:
To examine oral health conditions amongst head and neck cancer patients and to obtain experiences on oral health issues during treatment.
Methods:
Three hundred and eighteen patients were randomly selected and divided into three equal groups: Radiotherapy (n=150), Chemotherapy (n=70), and Combination (n=98). The primary method for obtaining data was a set questionnaire alongside clinical observation involving the Caries Index – DMFT, Gingival Index – GI, Plaque Index – PLI, and Oral Mucositis Index OMI.
Results:
The group which received combination treatment exhibited the highest DMFT score (6.6 ±1.19), severe gingival inflammation (GI: 2.98 ±0.6), heavy plaque accumulation (PLI: 2.01 ±0.61), and advanced mucositis (OMI: 2.99 ±0.56). After the treatments had been done, it was determined that Radiotherapy had stronger negative correlations with oral health indices than Chemotherapy. There were some differences noticed in dental visitation patterns and hygiene practices from group to group, however, the difference in oral health indices was noticeable at a statistically significant level (P < 0.0001).
Conclusion:
The patients with the combined treatment approach to head and neck cancer had the worst outcomes for all other health indicators and the greatest complications to oral health. Improved coordination of oral preventive care, timely action before a medical condition escalates, and teamwork between various health professionals is pivotal to symptom relief, better quality of life, and enhanced patient outcomes.