P302 - TASTE DYSFUNCTION IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING RADIO CHEMOTHERAPY FOR HEAD AND NECK CANCER: IMPACT ON NUTRITIONAL INTAKE AND QUALITY OF LIFE

P302

TASTE DYSFUNCTION IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING RADIO CHEMOTHERAPY FOR HEAD AND NECK CANCER: IMPACT ON NUTRITIONAL INTAKE AND QUALITY OF LIFE

C. Ezzouitina^1,2, F. Z. CHRAA^1,2, R. Laraichi^1,2, A. Lachgar¹, K. Nouni¹, H. El Kacemi¹, T. Kebdani^1,*, K. Hassouni¹

¹Radiotherapy, National Institute of Oncology, ²Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco

 

Rationale: Taste dysfunction is a common side effect in patients receiving radiochemotherapy for head and neck cancer.It significantly alters food preferences, appetite, and eating behavior, contributing to malnutrition, and reduced quality of life.

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and nature of taste alterations and their impact on nutritional status in HNC patients undergoing radiochemotherapy.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted between January and Jun 2024 at the department of radiotherapy of the National Institute of Oncology in Rabat. Patients undergoing concurrent radiochemotherapy for head and neck cancer were included.

Taste function and food experiences were assessed using a structured questionnaire and the Chemosensory Complaint Score at baseline, during treatment (week 4), and at the end of treatment. Nutritional status was monitored through weight changes, BMI, and dietary intake records. QoL was evaluated using the EORTC QLQ-H&N35 questionnaire.

Results: 87 patients were included with a mean age 49.6 years, The most common tumor site was the nasopharynx (45%).
84% reported moderate to severe taste dysfunction during treatment, with bitter and metallic taste disturbances being the most frequent.

70% of patients developed food aversions, particularly to protein-rich foods (meat, eggs, dairy).

Taste alterations were significantly associated with reduced caloric and protein intake (p < 0.01) and weight loss >5% in 62% of patients.

These changes also correlated with lower QoL scores, particularly in domains related to pain, swallowing, and social eating.

Conclusion: Taste dysfunction during radiochemotherapy for head and neck cancer is a major contributor to reduced food intake and weight loss.

Early identification and targeted nutritional support strategies are crucial to maintaining nutritional status and improving quality of life during treatment.

Disclosure of Interest: None declared