Oral Health-Related Quality of Life Outcomes Associated with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Among Patients in Ahvaz City, Iran

Abstract

Background: Patients with oral cancer often face significant side effects from both the disease and its treatments, such as tooth loss, speech difficulties, and changes in physical appearance. These challenges can profoundly affect their self-esteem. Objectives: To gain a deeper understanding of the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) in this population, this study examines the OHRQOL of individuals with squamous cell carcinoma of the mouth in Khuzestan province. Methods: This cross-sectional study focused on patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) registered in the Khuzestan province cancer registry system in 2023. Sampling was conducted using a census method. Participants were included if they had a confirmed diagnosis of OSCC and consented to participate. Those who withdrew or provided incomplete questionnaires were excluded. Data were collected using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) Questionnaire, administered by the researcher, allowing participants to select responses that best reflected their experiences. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 27 (IBM SPSS Statistics, Armonk, NY, USA). Results: A total of OSCC patients, 47 males and 32 females, were included in this analysis. The findings of the current study indicated that the mean score of OHRQOL was 6.15 ± 31.45, which is at a moderate level. The highest mean score for OHRQOL dimensions was attributed to physical disability, while psychological disability had the lowest. Although in the current study, no significant relationship was observed between any of the variables with the total score OHRQOL, a significant correlation was found between the mean score of functional limitations and marital status, decayed teeth, dental restoration, and income (P < 0.05). Moreover, a significant correlation was observed between the mean score of psychological disability and education, job, and insurance types (P < 0.05). Additionally, handicap was significantly higher among single individuals compared to married individuals (P < 0.05). Conclusions: To improve the oral and dental health of individuals with OSCC, public health initiatives should emphasize preventive dental interventions.