Patients with hemato-oncological diseases frequently experience oral health challenges, including dry mouth (xerostomia), mouth soreness, gingival pain, bleeding, and dental issues. In a study involving 705 patients (mean age 63.2), 40.5% met the criteria for xerostomia, significantly impacting their oral health-related quality of life (OH-QoL). Common treatments, including chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation, along with factors such as female gender, radiation to the head and neck, and multiple daily medications, were significant predictors of xerostomia. Despite these oral complaints, most patients reported a relatively good overall OH-QoL.

The findings highlight the need for proactive oral care in patients with hemato-oncological diseases, particularly for those at higher risk of xerostomia and other oral health issues. Health professionals should prioritize tailored oral supportive care to address individual needs and improve quality of life. Future longitudinal studies are essential to better understand the long-term oral health outcomes and develop more effective interventions for this patient population.

Reference: Laheij AMGA, Dillen LM, Nur E, Raber-Durlacher JE. Self-perceived oral health in hemato-oncological patients and the relation to quality of life. Support Care Cancer. 2024;32(10):643. doi: 10.1007/s00520-024-08849-w.