The impact of cancer therapy on the oral-health-related-quality-of-life of paediatric cancer survivors

Abstract

Background: Whilst childhood cancers account for 1–10% of all diagnosed cancers globally, the majority of cases are in low- and middle-income countries, where survival rates remain low. While survival rates have improved, paediatric cancer survivors often experience longterm oral health complications from cancer treatments. However, the impact of these complications on the oral-health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of paediatric cancer survivors in South Africa reamains understudied, restricting the ability of healthcare providers to develop contextually appropriate long-term follow-up dental care protocols for survivors. Aim and Objectives: This study aimed to determine the OHRQoL experienced among paediatric cancer survivors who completed cancer therapy.