Citation: European Journal of Oncology Nursing April. 2023
Author: Semple, Cherith J. a; McKenna, Gerry b; Parahoo, Roisin a; Rogers, Simon N. c; Tiblom Ehrsson, Ylva d
Abstract: Purpose Quality of life is a critical aspect in the management of older head and neck cancer patients. It needs to be considered alongside survival benefit, treatment burden, and longer-term outcomes. The purpose was to undertake a systematic review of empirical peer-reviewed studies with a primary focus on factors impacting quality of life for older head and neck cancer patients.
Results Only 10 papers fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Two main themes emerged: 1) Impact of head and neck cancer on quality of life domains and 2) quality of life in treatment decision-making.
Conclusions In an era of progressive personalised care, there is an evident need for more qualitative and quantitative studies focusing on quality of life for older head and neck cancer patients. However, older head and neck cancer patients experience notable differences, especially with poorer physical functioning and greater eating and drinking challenges. Quality of life impacts older patients decision-making, treatment planning and intensifies post-treatment support.
@@@@Highlights •Management of older patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) is a source of much debate.•Older HNC patients have greater eating challenges, with higher enteral feeding requirement.•Older HNC patients seem to cope and adjust well to treatment, reflected in HRQoL scores.•Decision-making and treatment priorities often differ for older patients with HNC.•Necessity for future studies to enhance person-centred care for older patients with HNC
