BACKGROUND

Oral cancer is the fifth most common form of cancer in Taiwan in terms of incidence and death rate and results in at least 2700 deaths each year.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study were to assess the postoperative health-related quality of life (QOL) and care needs of oral cancer patients comprehensively and to evaluate the correlation between health-related QOL and care needs.

INTERVENTIONS/METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled 126 oral cancer patients who had received surgical treatment within the previous 2 years and were without cognitive impairment. Each patient completed a demographic questionnaire, the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Head and Neck Cancer Quality of Life Scale, and the Short-Form Cancer Needs Questionnaire.

RESULTS

Female patients and patients receiving 3 or more chemotherapy treatments were significantly associated with increased Short-Form Cancer Needs Questionnaire scores (higher level of care needs) (β = 0.177 and 28.49, both P < .05) and patients receiving 3 or more chemotherapy treatments were significantly associated with increased Head and Neck Cancer Quality of Life Scale scores (higher level of symptoms and problems) (β = 27.77, P = .007). Results of stepwise multiple linear regression analysis indicated that 4 oral cancer-related symptoms and problems, "trouble with social contacts," "swallowing problems," "teeth problems," and "feeling ill," were significantly associated with higher care needs in oral cancer patients (all P ≤ .05).

CONCLUSION

A significant correlation exists between health-related QOL and care needs.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Using a valid health-related QOL scale may help nurses determine their perceived physical and psychological care needs.