Nutritional Status and Quality of Life In Head and Neck Cancer Patients: Insights From A Nigerian Study

Background: Malnutrition is a significant challenge in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients, often exacerbated by tumor location, treatment side effects, and socioeconomic constraints.This study examines the relationship between nutritional status and quality of life (QoL) among HNC patients at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Nigeria. Methods:A cross-sectional study of 100 HNC patients was conducted.QoL was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30 and QLQ-H&N35 questionnaires.Nutritional status was evaluated using body mass index (BMI), serum albumin, and prealbumin levels.Logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of poor QoL.Results: Malnutrition was identified in 45% of patients, significantly reducing QoL scores for physical, emotional, and social functioning (p < 0.05).Malnourished patients reported higher symptom burdens, particularly pain, dysphagia, and xerostomia.Additionally, 67% reported reduced sexual activity and 58% experienced body image disturbances.Logistic regression identified serum albumin <3.5 g/dL (OR = 2.89, 95% CI: 1.4-5.9)and BMI <18.5 kg/m (OR = 3.45, 95% CI: 1.8-6.7)as independent predictors of poor QoL. Conclusion:Malnutrition significantly impairs QoL in HNC patients.Early nutritional assessment and intervention, along with cost-effective supportive strategies, are crucial-especially in resource-limited settings-to improve patient outcomes.