Dysphagia in Head and Neck Cancer Patients: A Qualitative Meta‐Synthesis of Patient and Caregiver Experiences and Perspectives

ABSTRACT

Background

Dysphagia not only affects the nutritional intake of head and neck cancer (HNC) patients but may also lead to social avoidance, emotional fluctuations, and a decline in life confidence. Furthermore, dysphagia places an additional psychological and physical burden on caregivers, significantly altering their lifestyles.

Method

This study employed a qualitative systematic review approach to comprehensively analyse the experiences and coping strategies of HNC patients and their caregivers in relation to dysphagia. Relevant qualitative studies published from the inception of the database through September 2024 were selected. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research (2016), and a meta-aggregation method was applied to synthesise and categorise the research themes. This study standardised the presentation of results in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines.

Results

A total of 14 studies were included, resulting in 63 research outcomes, which were consolidated into 12 new categories and integrated into 4 main themes: (1) the impact of dysphagia on daily life; (2) coping with the changes caused by dysphagia; (3) understanding of dysphagia and related needs; and (4) the physiological and psychological challenges faced, and the efforts to seek support.

Conclusions

The dual physiological and psychological challenges posed by dysphagia profoundly affect patients' daily lives, prompting ongoing adjustments to cope with these changes. Both patients and caregivers have a limited understanding of dysphagia but exhibit a strong need for support. These findings underscore the importance of providing comprehensive, individualised support for patients and caregivers to improve their quality of life and coping experiences.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution. This study aims to analyse and synthesise the experiences and perspectives of patients and their caregivers reported in existing research. As no original data were collected and no direct interaction with patients or the public occurred, specific patient or public contributions are not included.