Quality of life as predictor of weight loss in patients with head and neck cancer.

Background: The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate whether a relationship exists between malnutrition (> or =10% weight loss) and health-related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with head and neck cancer and whether weight loss can be predicted with HRQL questionnaires.

Methods: Weight and HRQL were monitored in 49 patients. HRQL was assessed longitudinally, using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Core Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), the EORTC Head and Neck Cancer module (QLQ-H&N35), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Effects of psychosocial intervention on quality of life in patients with head and neck cancer.

Background: A longitudinal, prospective, case-control study evaluated if a psychosocial support program improved health-related quality of life (HRQL) in head and neck (H&N) cancer patients.

Methods: One hundred forty-four H&N cancer patients were included: 52 study patients and 92 controls. The study group met the support team repeatedly throughout the first year after diagnosis.