The Effect of Nutritional support on predetermined parameters in Patients with Chemo Radiation for Head and Neck Cancers

Background: Head and neck cancer, the most common form of tumour in developing countries. For patients undergoing chemo-radiation for head and neck cancers, nutritional support is essential for minimizing side effects and enhancing treatment success. In contrast to home-based nutritional therapy, this study examines the impact of structured nutritional support on clinical and biochemical indicators. Methodology: Fifty patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma were included in an 18-month prospective observational research at NRI Medical College. Patients were randomized into two groups, with Group B receiving structured nutritional care and Group A receiving home-based nutritional support. Weight, haemoglobin, and albumin levels were among the clinical measurements, and treatment outcomes, side effects, infections, and re admissions to the hospital were assessed. Results: Structured nutritional support significantly reduced treatment interruptions (p=0.0308) and hospital re admissions (p=0.0047) compared to home-based care. Haemoglobin, albumin, and weight changes showed no statistically significant differences across groups (e.g., post-treatment haemoglobin p=0.4786). Group B patients tolerated treatment better, with fewer Grade 3 mucositis cases (4% vs 6%) and severe skin reactions (8% vs 4%). These findings underscore the importance of organized nutritional care during chemo radiation for improved outcomes. Conclusion: Patients receiving chemo-radiation therapy for head and neck cancers benefit from structured dietary support, which also lowers hospital re admissions and increases treatment adherence.