Exploring the Effects of Frailty and Sarcopenia on Dysphagia in Head and Neck Cancer: A Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND

Frailty and sarcopenia may influence head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment outcomes, including dysphagia. Current understanding of this relationship, however, remains limited. This scoping review aimed to synthesize existing evidence on the relationship between frailty and/or sarcopenia and dysphagia in adults with HNC.

METHODS

A scoping review of PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL was conducted for original research published to December 2025. Eligible studies included adults (18+ years), diagnosed with HNC, examining frailty or sarcopenia and dysphagia.

RESULTS

Of 5462 studies screened, 16 were included. Five examined frailty and dysphagia, and 11 examined sarcopenia and dysphagia. Most studies reported a positive association with dysphagia. Considerable heterogeneity was observed across study aims, participant demographics, and nature and timing of assessment of frailty, sarcopenia, and dysphagia.

CONCLUSIONS

Emerging evidence suggests frailty and sarcopenia are important risk factors for dysphagia in HNC. Further systematic research is needed to inform prognostic and management decisions.