SWALLOWING QUALITY OF LIFE AND HEAD AND NECK CANCER: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to review the literature on the quality of life related to swallowing of patients with head and neck cancer. Methods: We searched for studies describing the physiology of swallowing and aspects involved in dysphagia, such as definition, causes and their impact on quality of life. We used the electronic databases Pubmed, Medline, Scielo, books, as well as articles identified in the references. Results: Deglutition disorders may occur due to disease and / or treatment modality, persisting during or after termination of treatment. The frequency and severity of dysphagia will depend on the modality of treatment used, location and stage of the tumor, when involved in structures that participate in swallowing. Patients with tumors in more advanced stages and located in the pharynx try to present worsening of swallowing function. Such factors may directly affect swallowing and quality of life of the patient, especially in family, social and lifestyle relationships. Conclusion: Although it does not replace clinical and instrumental evaluations, investigating the quality of life in swallowing may contribute to assess specific aspects of patient well-being that are not contemplated.