Projects

Laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinomas represent a large proportion of head and neck malignancies managed through a multimodal approach, including surgery and chemoradiation, with the latter emphasizing organ preservation. However, chemoradiation often results in persistent morbidities that profoundly affect health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study evaluated the impact of chemoradiation therapy (CT-RT) on the quality of life (QoL) of patients with carcinoma of the larynx and hypopharynx. Using the EORTC QLQ-C30 and HN43 questionnaires, pre- and post-treatment QoL scores were analyzed for 46 patients. Using these validated questionnaires and clinical assessments, data was gathered retrospectively and prospectively from medical records and patient interviews. Results showed significant improvements in emotional well-being (mean difference 17.6, p < 0.001), financial constraints (mean difference 25.9, p < 0.001) and global health status (score increase 14.1). Functional impairments like fatigue, pain, swallowing and speech difficulties improved over a period of time, while sensory issues, social eating, and social contact deteriorated. Persistent side effects, including dry mouth and increased feeding tube dependency and nutritional supplements emphasized the challenges in balancing survival and QoL in cancer care. Decannulation was achieved in 9 of 15 patients. The findings highlighted the psychosocial and functional impacts of treatment, offering critical insights into long-term outcomes and identifying key areas for interventions to improve patient well-being.