Support needs and quality of life in oral cancer: a systematic review

• Published in: International journal of dental hygiene 2014-02, Vol.12 (1), p.36-47
• Main Authors: Moore, KA, Ford, PJ, Farah, CS
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adaptation, Psychological; Attitude to Health; Dentistry; Health Services Needs and Demand; Humans; mouth neoplasms; Mouth Neoplasms - psychology; Mouth Neoplasms - radiotherapy; needs; Nutritional Support; Oral cancer; Oral Health; Quality of Life; Social Support; support; Systematic review
• ISSN: 1601-5029; 1601-5037
• DOI: 10.1111/idh.12051

Purpose This review aims to systematically review the literature describing quality of life (QoL) outcomes and support needs in patients with oral cancer along the cancer trajectory. This is needed to form an evidence base for the design of interventions that enhance outcomes for this group. Methods Six electronic databases were searched. The results were screened for eligibility, and articles were included if they described patient‐reported QoL outcomes that were translatable to support needs in patients with oral cancer. Data were extracted and synthesized according to the support needs identified and their relative impact on QoL. Methodological quality was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) Quality Assessment Tool. Results Thirty‐one articles met the inclusion criteria. Support needs related to coping with the burden of radiotherapy in both psychosocial and physical aspects, swallowing dysfunction, dry mouth and oral functional deficits. Issues of depression, anxiety and malnutrition were identified as having a significant impact on QoL. Conclusions Oral cancer support needs are highly subjective and varied in severity across the cancer continuum. Support needs that may warrant further investigation include management of changes to oral health and functioning, swallowing and nutritional compromise and psychological effects of cancer and treatment.