Dental consultation in patients planned for/undergoing/post radiation therapy for head and neck cancers: A questionnaire-based survey.
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Date
2011-09
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Abstract
Background: Mouth and pharyngeal cancers account for approximately 6% of cancers worldwide. Radiotherapy is one of the means of treatment of head and neck cancer. Consultation with a dental team experienced in caring for patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer will improve the quality of life of such patients.
Aims and Objectives: To evaluate the attitude of oncologists toward dental consultation to patients planning for/prior to/undergoing/post radiation therapy for head and neck cancers and to evaluate the number of radiation oncologists who encounter oral complaints and consider worth referring to a dentist.
Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based study was carried out following mailing of covering letter and self-administered questionnaire comprising 11 items, to 25 radiation oncology centers selected in India based on convenient sampling.
Results: Out of the 25 centers, we received response from 20 centers with 60 completely filled questionnaires. Five centers did not respond for further correspondences.
Conclusion: The study indicated a need for awareness and education among radiation oncologists regarding dental consultation in patients planned/undergoing /post radiation therapy for head and neck cancer.
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Keywords
Dental consultation, radiation therapy, questionnaire
Citation
Mainali Apeksha, Sumanth K N, Ongole Ravikiran, Denny Ceena. Dental consultation in patients planned for/undergoing/post radiation therapy for head and neck cancers: A questionnaire-based survey. Indian Journal of Dental Research. 2011 Sept-Oct; 22(5): 669-672.