A Subjective Assessment of Chemotherapy Drug-Induced Taste and Smell Alteration in Non-head and Neck Cancer Patients: A Questionnaire-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate alterations in taste and smell perceptions among non-head and neck cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, aiming to identify factors influencing these changes. Methods: A cohort of 70 non-head and neck cancer patients undergoing one to four cycles or more than four cycles, over a six-month period, from oncology outpatient clinics was recruited. Participants completed structured taste and smell questionnaires with assistance from interviewers. Demographic data, recurrence history, chemotherapy cycles, drug regimens, and taste and smell perceptions were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: The mean age of participants was 46.5 years, with a predominance of females (81.4%) and breast cancer cases (42.9%). Taste changes were more prevalent (62.9%) than smell changes (32.9%) post chemotherapy, particularly among those on combination drug regimens. Salty taste alterations were the most common (30.0%), followed by sweet taste (22.9%) and sour/bitter tastes (14.3%). Moreover, 38.57% of patients reported experiencing dysgeusia, while 30% noted the occurrence of parosmia post chemotherapy. Conclusion: Chemotherapy-induced alterations in taste and smell significantly impact the quality of life and nutritional status of cancer patients. Despite often being overlooked, these changes warrant increased attention in oncological practice to inform treatment decisions and enhance symptom management, particularly in palliative care settings. Further research is needed to explore the implications of chemosensory alterations on patient outcomes and treatment strategies.