Abstract
The head and neck region is highly complex in terms of its anatomy and physiology.
Head and neck cancer (HNC) and the treatment thereof can significantly affect both
the structure and function of this area, especially in terms of swallowing, breathing
and speaking. This may lead to a significant reduction in quality of life (QOL), and
present challenges to both patients and their caregivers. There is increasing evidence
that physical activity (PA) after a diagnosis of cancer is associated with improved
overall mortality. This is well established in colon, prostate, ovarian and breast
cancer. 2 recent metanalyses have determined that exercise interventions following
cancer diagnosis are associated with a 41% reduction in risk of all-cause mortality,
and an improvement in QOL. PA has also been found to be valuable in counteracting
symptoms that reduce QOL, including depression, fatigue, worry and anxiety. Given
that HNC patients face their own unique set of challenges, and may have different
needs than other cancer patients, we have reviewed the available literature on the
interactions between exercise and QOL in HNC patients.
Key words
cancer - physical activity - quality of life - head and neck