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Effects of N-acetylcysteine inhalation therapy on the quality of life of patients with head and neck cancer who are receiving radiation therapy: a prospective non-randomized controlled multi-center study.
- Source :
-
Journal of cancer research and clinical oncology [J Cancer Res Clin Oncol] 2021 Feb; Vol. 147 (2), pp. 539-547. Date of Electronic Publication: 2020 Aug 14. - Publication Year :
- 2021
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Abstract
- Backgrounds and Purpose: Radiation therapy is an important mode of treatment for patients with head and neck cancers, but some associated complications can reduce the quality of life. We investigated whether N-acetylcysteine inhalation therapy improved the quality of life of such patients.<br />Materials and Methods: We designed a prospective, non-randomized controlled multi-center study involving 10 institutions. We enrolled 120 patients (80 in the experimental group and 40 in the control group). Patients in the experimental group inhaled nebulized liquid N-acetylcysteine (2400 mg daily) for 8 weeks from the start of radiation therapy. Quality of life was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire H&N 35.<br />Results: N-acetylcysteine inhalation was not associated with any side effect or discomfort. The reduction in painkiller use from the end of N-acetylcysteine inhalation therapy to the 1-month follow-up was greater in the experimental group than in the control group (Pā=ā0.014). Dry mouth symptoms also improved significantly in the experimental group (Pā=ā0.019).<br />Conclusion: N-acetylcysteine inhalation improves the quality of life of patients with head and neck cancers who are receiving radiation therapy, without any specific side effect.
- Subjects :
- Acetylcysteine adverse effects
Aged
Female
Head and Neck Neoplasms psychology
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Prospective Studies
Respiratory Therapy
Stomatitis epidemiology
Acetylcysteine administration & dosage
Head and Neck Neoplasms radiotherapy
Quality of Life
Radiation Injuries drug therapy
Stomatitis drug therapy
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 1432-1335
- Volume :
- 147
- Issue :
- 2
- Database :
- MEDLINE
- Journal :
- Journal of cancer research and clinical oncology
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 32803294
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1007/s00432-020-03347-y