PREVALENCE AND IMPACT OF SARCOPENIA AMONG HEAD AND NECK CANCER PATIENTS UNDERGOING CHEMO-RADIOTHERAPY IN CHENNAI: A DESCRIPTIVE CORRELATIONAL STUDY

Author Name: Manju Sudhakar, Sasikala. D, Padmavathy Murugan

Volume: 03/02

Country: India

DOI NO.: 11.2023-61555522 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/02.2026-99846985/GIJNR

Affiliation:

1. Assistant Professor, Apollo College of Nursing.
2. Professor, Apollo College of Nursing.
3. Staff Nurse, Government Medical College and Hospital Omandurar,Chennai, Affiliated to TN Dr. MGR Medical University, Chennai.

ABSTRACT

Head and neck cancers (HNCs) account for approximately 25–30% of all malignancies in India and are commonly managed with chemo-radiotherapy (CRT) in advanced stages. Sarcopenia, characterized by the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical function, is increasingly recognized among HNC patients receiving CRT and is associated with poor treatment tolerance and adverse outcomes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of sarcopenia and its association with selected demographic and clinical variables among HNC patients undergoing CRT. A descriptive correlational design was employed among 100 patients admitted to the chemo-radiation wards of selected hospitals in Chennai, using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Standardized tools were used to assess demographic characteristics and sarcopenia-related parameters, including muscle strength, physical performance, and functional limitations. The majority of participants were male (66.7%) and aged between 51 and 70 years, with most diagnosed at Stage II or III disease. Overall, 60% of patients were identified as being at high risk for sarcopenia, with common functional impairments such as reduced hand-grip strength, difficulty rising from a seated position, and challenges in climbing stairs. Although a higher risk of sarcopenia was observed among older adults, females, obese individuals, and those experiencing severe stress, no statistically significant association was found between sarcopenia risk and the selected demographic or clinical variables. The findings highlight the high prevalence of sarcopenia among HNC patients receiving CRT and underscore the critical role of oncology nurses in early screening, patient education, and implementation of supportive care interventions to improve treatment tolerance, reduce complications, and enhance overall quality of life.

Key words: Head and neck cancer, Sarcopenia, Chemo-radiotherapy, Muscle strength, Nursing care & Oncology.