© 1999 by Oxford University Press
Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Vol. 91, No. 4, 316,
February 17, 1999
© 1999 Oxford University Press
NEWS |
Campaign Targets Oral Health During Cancer Treatment
Cancer patients may face a number of side effects from their treatment, including fatigue, skin problems, and loss of appetite. One-third of all Americans diagnosed with cancer each year will face another problem — the development of oral complications such as mucositis, salivary gland dysfunction, and infection.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research has launched a health awareness campaign aimed at patients and health care professionals to stress the importance of dental health during cancer treatment.
"Oral complications [in cancer patients] can be minimized, reduced, or even eliminated by a partnership," said Harold Slavkin, D.D.S., director of NIDCR. "It's important to foster communication between these health care professionals."
The campaign, dubbed Oral Health, Cancer Care, and You: Fitting the Pieces Together, was
announced in late January.
It was launched in partnership with the
National Institute of Nursing
Research, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Friends of the NIDCR.
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Almost all patients who receive radiation treatment to the head and neck and nearly 40% of patients undergoing chemotherapy will develop some type of oral complication. The most common complications include inflamed gums, mouth ulcers, bleeding, infection, and salivary gland dysfunction.
"When an individual undergoes cancer treatment, the patient may experience difficulty with the main functions of the mouth," said Philip Fox, D.D.S., director of research and development at Amarillo Biosciences. "This has a direct impact on cancer treatment."
Campaign materials include brochures for patients on the effects of chemotherapy and radiation on oral health, and fact sheets for oncologists and for dentists. NIDCR recommends that patients see a dentist at least 2 weeks before beginning radiation treatment, keep the mouth moist, and examine teeth and gums every day to look for changes or complications.
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