Assessing Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Women Undergoing Chemotherapy For Breast Cancer In Karachi, Pakistan: A Multi-center Hospital Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction In Pakistan, women undergoing chemotherapy are usually unaware of the potential impact of the treatment on their oral health quality of life. This study aims to assess the impact of chemotherapy on oral health quality of life. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted among 160 breast cancer (BC) patients on chemotherapy coming to Aga Khan Hospital and Jinnah Postgraduate medical center. Data collection was performed using a validated questionnaire for sociodemographic variables, types and frequency of oral hygiene measures, oral mucositis (OM) and oral health quality of life (OHRQoL) and oral examination was performed. Data was analyzed using simple linear regression method. Results Among these females, 119 were married, with a mean age of 47.64 ± 10.89 years. OM was present in 88, 25 used miswak/dentonic, 33 did not receive care by dentists/nurses, 15 reported moderate to severe gingival inflammation, and 85 were at stage 3 BC. OHRQoL was significantly associated with OM, women’s age, marital status, gingival status, and platelet count. Conclusion This multi-center cross-sectional study highlights the significance of OHRQoL among BC patients undergoing chemotherapy. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive oral health care for these patients to improve their quality of life and treatment outcomes.