An Experimental Study To Evaluate The Effectiveness Of Health Promotion Package On Selected Physiological Symptoms Among Head And Neck Cancer Patients In Selected Hospital, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Cancer is the second common cause of mortality in developed countries. Oral mucositis is an inflammation caused by the necrosis of the layer of the oral mucosa. It is one of the most common oral complications associated with cancer treatment. Cryotherapy is a treatment based on the application of low temperatures on a body part. The aim of this treatment is to reduce inflammation, cellular metabolism, pain and spasm and increase vasoconstriction and cellular survival. Specific swallowing exercises have been shown to reduce the effects of radiation induced dysphagia and improve the prognosis for oral intake. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of health promotion package on selected physiological symptoms among head and neck cancer patients in selected hospital Kanyakumari District Tamil Nadu. The design used in this study is Quasi experimental with pre test post test control group design. The study is conducted in International Cancer Centre Neyyoor. The tools used were WHO Mucositis grading scale, National Cancer Institute Xerestomia Grading Scale, Numerical pain rating scale and MAAN Assessment of swallowing Ability scale to assess the physiological symptoms. The investigator given cryotherapy and swallowing exercises for the period of four weeks. Result of the study revealed that health promotion package is effective in reducing physiological symptoms among head and neck cancer patients.