The long-term quality of life outcomes of head-neck cancer patients who were treated with Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) are not well known. The aim of this study was to determine the long-term quality of life and problems in patients undergoing IMRT in head-neck cancers. The study was conducted at a high-volume tertiary care setting. Patients who have received IMRT for head and neck cancers in our clinic, who completed at least one year following the completion of their therapy, and who are being followed up for the present, were included in the study. To assess patients quality of life and problems they experience, the updated(revised) version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Head and Neck Module (EORTC QLQ-H&N43) and The Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) were administered to patients by the same clinician, using the face-to-face interview method. The study included 18,28,30 patients who received IMRT for hypopharyngeal, nasopharyngeal, and laryngeal cancer, respectively. Given the EORTC QLQ-H&N43 results of patient groups; contrary to expectations, mucosal dryness, sense and voice problems were observed as common problems in all patient groups. Thanks to protection of body integrity, good social contact and communication, a high level of satisfaction was observed in all patient groups. In conclusion; a high level of satisfaction was observed in patient groups treated with IMRT, despite long-term mucosal dryness, voice disturbances and sense problems, thanks to the preservation of body integrity and good social communication.
Key words: Head and neck cancer, Life quality (QoL), sexuality, EORTC QLQ-H&N43, Arizona Sexual Experiences Scal e ASEX), Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
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