Impact of Head and Neck Cancer Treatment on Survivors' Mealtime Experience

Abstract

Objectives/Hypothesis: The objectives of the study were to develop a mealtime experience self-assessment questionnaire that was head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors–driven and based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework, and to identify common mealtime issues reported by HNC survivors. Study Design: Outcomes research. Methods: Mealtime issues reported by HNC survivors in prior research was synthesized and classified using the ICF framework to develop the content and structure of the Head and Neck Cancer Survivors’ Assessment of Mealtimes (HNSAM). A total of 122 HNC survivors completed both HNSAM and M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) to assess for concurrent validity, whereas 51% of participants completed a second HNSAM for test–retest reliability. Results: The HNSAM scores were significantly correlated with the MDADI scores. Dysphagic participants (n = 45) had significantly higher HNSAM scores than the nondysphagic participants (n = 77). Principal component analysis revealed three factors that matched with the HNSAM subscales. Good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.72–0.96) and test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation = 0.76–0.91) were found. Both dysphagic and nondysphagic participants reported difficulties with saliva-related issues and were not able to enjoy food/drinks that they previously enjoyed. Conclusions: HNC survivors experience mealtime changes after cancer treatment. These initial validity data support the potential for the HNSAM to help HNC survivors’ identify changes to the mealtime experience. Validation of the English version of the tool is now required.