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Chapter-086 Quality of Life in Head and Neck Cancer

BOOK TITLE: Head & Neck Surgery (2 Volumes)

Author
1. Weymuller Jr Ernest A
2. Yueh Bevan
ISBN
9788184486797
DOI
10.5005/jp/books/10351_86
Edition
1/e
Publishing Year
2009
Pages
8
Author Affiliations
1. University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
2. University of Washington, Seattle, USA
Chapter keywords
quality of life, QOL, neck cancer, population, cancer survival, comorbid illness, post-treatment

Abstract

This chapter discusses quality of life in head and neck cancer, where quality of life (QOL) defines individual’s perception of his or her position in life, within the cultural context and value system he or she lives in, and in relation to his or her goals, expectations, parameters and social relations. Since health-related QOL reflects the value that patients place on their health status and function, accurate assessment of QOL requires a direct response from the patient. QOL investigation must use instruments that are validated in the language appropriate to the study population. Patients will sacrifice elements of QOL to achieve cancer survival, if given the choice between survival and QOL. Swallowing, pain, and multiple comorbid illness appear to be the determining factors in post-treatment QOL. Transitional QOL refers to a QOL inquiry at some interval after treatment.

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