A descriptive analysis of the relationship between quality of life and distress in individuals with head and neck cancer.

PURPOSE: Both short- and long-term outcomes for individuals with head and neck cancer (HNCa) may be influenced by multiple factors. Identification of distress in those with HNCa may provide a critical dimension that influences quality of life (QoL). Consequently, this investigation assessed distress and QoL in those with HNCa.

METHODS: This study utilized a cross-sectional, self-report survey design. Participants included 49 adults diagnosed with HNCa. Upon assessment, post-diagnosis time ranged between 3-12 months. All participants completed a validated distress screening measure, the Brief Symptom Inventory 18 (BSI-18), and the EORTC general QoL assessment tool (EORTC-QLQ-C30) and HNCa module (EORTC-QLQ-H&N35).

RESULTS: Approximately 22% of participants demonstrated clinically significant distress. Additionally, distress was significantly related to QoL status and specific symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS: Screening for distress in those with HNCa may permit early identification of problems that influence QoL outcomes. The ability to identify distress early may also facilitate timely intervention to reduce distress and optimize QoL.