Dysphagia following a total laryngectomy: the effect on quality of life, functioning, and psychological well-being.
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect that dysphagia has on quality of life (QoL), functioning, and psychological well-being of people who have undergone a total laryngectomy. A questionnaire battery was sent to all members (N = 197) of the Laryngectomee Association of NSW, Australia. QoL and functioning were assessed using the World Health Organisation Quality of Life-Bref (WHOQoL-Bref) and the University of Washington QoL (UW-QoL) measures. Psychological well-being was measured using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS). One hundred ten questionnaires (56%) were completed and returned. There were no significant differences in QoL, as measured by the WHOQoL-Bref, between those laryngectomees with and without dysphagia. Laryngectomees with dysphagia, however, had significantly impaired functioning and markedly reduced social participation as measured by the UW-QoL. Significantly higher levels of depression and anxiety were also documented in those laryngectomees who had dysphagia. Dysphagia may not necessarily determine QoL following a total laryngectomy. However, it may have a negative impact on functioning and on psychological well-being.
Maclean
Julia
J
Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Short Street, Kogarah, NSW 2217, Australia. Julia.Maclean@sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au
Cotton
Susan
S
Perry
Alison
A
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001007:Anxiety; D002648:Child; D003679:Deglutition; D003863:Depression; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007822:Laryngeal Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D007825:Laryngectomy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011594:Psychometrics; D011788:Quality of Life; D012307:Risk Factors; D013315:Stress, Psychological; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult