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Issue: Vol. 71 No. 76 (2026)
Section: Articles
DOI: 10.60137/tmhvn.v71i76.309
Date Published: 30/06/2026
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Phung, T. H., Pham , V. H., & Nguyen, B. H. (2026). OVERVIEW OF QUALITY OF LIFE ASSESSMENT INSTRUMENTS FOR HEAD AND NECK CANCER PATIENTS. Vietnam Journal of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, 71(76), 9-17. https://doi.org/10.60137/tmhvn.v71i76.309

OVERVIEW OF QUALITY OF LIFE ASSESSMENT INSTRUMENTS FOR HEAD AND NECK CANCER PATIENTS

Thi Hoa Phung1, , Van Hiep Pham 2, Bich Huong Nguyen3
1 Đại học Y Dươc, Đại học Quốc Gia Hà Nôi
2 Bệnh viện Tai Mũi Họng Trung ương
3 Bệnh viện Tai mũi họng TW

Main Article Content

Abstract

Objective: To systematize the quality of life  assessment tools currently used for patients with head and neck cancer. Methods: Scoping review. Results: A total of 121 articles were identified. After screening and exclusion, 9 articles were included for analysis. The most commonly used assessment tools were EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-H&N35. Persistent post-treatment symptoms included xerostomia, dysphagia, reduced salivation, and trismus. Some studies employed objective clinical tools such as the HNC-FIT Scales. Assessments were conducted at various time points, ranging from pre-treatment to long-term follow-up (3–5 years). Conclusion: The EORTC QLQ-C30/H&N35 is the most widely used tool for evaluating QoL in HNC patients. Symptoms such as xerostomia, dysphagia, reduced salivation, and trismus remain persistent after treatment. Combining patient-reported outcome measures with objective clinical assessments enhances the accuracy and comprehensiveness of QoL evaluation.

 

Keywords

Head and neck cancer, quality of life, assessment instruments

Article Details

References

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