Vol. 2, Issue 12, Part D (2016)
Pattern of weight loss in head and neck cancer patients undergoing curative radiotherapy
Pattern of weight loss in head and neck cancer patients undergoing curative radiotherapy
Author(s)
Raees Tonse, Saira Pais, Dipika Jaychander and MS Baliga
AbstractPurpose: Many patients receiving fractionated radiotherapy (RT) for head-and-neck cancer have marked anatomic changes during their course of treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of weight loss in head and neck cancer patients after the commencement of radiotherapy treatment.
Methods and Materials: A total of 30 patients with head and neck cancer treated with Intensity modulated radiotherapy was enrolled in the study. The weight of patient every week was documented and percentage drop from the baseline was observed.
Results: The mean weight at baseline was 54.50 kg and the mean weight at the end of 6 weeks of radiotherapy was 51.10 kg. The percentage drop in weight was 6.57%. A significant number of patients experienced a dry mouth, had difficulty masticating and swallowing food, had altered taste perception, were missing meals.
Conclusion: Since radiotherapy treatment may further limit oral intake, it is essential that dietetic intervention is addressed for all head and neck cancer patients and incorporated into the treatment plan on diagnosis.
How to cite this article:
Raees Tonse, Saira Pais, Dipika Jaychander, MS Baliga. Pattern of weight loss in head and neck cancer patients undergoing curative radiotherapy. Int J Appl Res 2016;2(12):214-216.