Twelve‐Month Outcomes of a Preventive Dysphagia Intervention in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer—A Randomized Study

BACKGROUND: Radiation-associated dysphagia is common after radiotherapy for head and neck cancer and may occur early or years later. The effect of preventive exercises might be undermined by poor adherence. AIM: To evaluate the effect of a simple preventive exercise protocol on swallowing function up to 12 months after radiotherapy. METHODS: Patients were randomized to an active group (n = 45) or control group (n = 44). The active group performed preventive exercises including the tongue hold exercise. Assessments were conducted before radiotherapy and at 1, 6, and 12 months post-treatment using the Penetration-Aspiration Scale, DIGEST-FEES, and the M. D. Anderson dysphagia inventory. RESULTS: No significant differences were found between groups. However, participants with ≥ 75% adherence in the active group showed significantly less deterioration at 12 months on the penetration-aspiration scale. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, no significant effect on swallowing function was demonstrated. However, results indicate that high adherence reduces deterioration.