What are the unmet needs in oral health amongst cancer patients?

Abstract

Background: The National Cancer plan 2017-2021 estimated that in Malta by the year 2020 would have approximately 2100 new diagnoses. Therefore, this research will investigate different aspects of unmet needs in oral health, which cancer patients endure during and after cancer therapy and identify gaps within the health system to improve oral health services given to cancer patients. Objectives: The objective is to investigate if there is a need to implement a pre-cancer oral health evaluation and treatment. Increase the present service that the dental hygienist provides at SAMOC and evaluate patients for periodontal assessment and schedule an appointment prior to cancer treatment at Mater Dei hospital. Design: A cross-sectional quantitative study was chosen for this investigation to answer the research question. This research data was collected in a single phase with a survey which was collected from 84 participants which were included in this analysis. The prevalence of oral health needs at any time during their cancer therapy. Results: The participants main age group is in the group of 66-75 with (n=37, 44.6%), with a prevalent of colorectal and breast cancer patients. Most of the participants 37.4% brushed their teeth once a day and 31.3% less than once a day. Bleeding gums was reported among 42.4% of the participants and sensitive teeth 32.2% and mouth ulcers 30.5%. Conclusion: This research concluded that there is lack of oral health knowledge among the participants. There are various aliments from oral health needs which can be associated to cancer therapy. Newly diagnosed cancer patients will benefit from an oral health evaluation appointment prior to cancer therapy.