Dysphagia in patients with non-head and neck cancer.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review the current evidence on dysphagia in non-head and neck cancer, including its cause, prevalence, impact, management, and areas for future research.

RECENT FINDINGS: Dysphagia is widely recognised as a common and debilitating side-effect of head and neck cancer (HNC) and its treatment; however, minimal attention has been given to dysphagia in other cancer populations. Detailed data regarding the exact nature and prevalence of dysphagia are limited, in part because of the lack of any validated tools specifically for non-HNC patients. Dysphagia can be due to a variety of different causes in cancer patients. It can have a significant impact on physical and psychological wellbeing, and its management can be complex and multifactorial.

SUMMARY: Preliminary evidence suggests that the prevalence of dysphagia in non-HNC patients may be high. Cancer patients are vulnerable and survivorship is a key component of cancer care, so further research is essential to better understand the problem and thus provide optimal care and outcomes for patients.