Age, Sex And Education Level Of Symptom Cluster In Head And Neck Cancer Patients

Abstract

Common symptoms are experienced by cancer patients, but the prevalence and severity can differ. The prevalence and severity of symptoms in the cluster will affect the better or worse the overall symptom experience, as stated by the symptom management theory. The prevalence and severity of symptoms in the cluster correlated with patient characteristics. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between age, sex, and education level on symptom clusters in head and neck cancer patients. The method of this study was an observational analytic with a cross-sectional approach. Sample selection using inclusion criteria, as follows: head and neck cancer without metastatic to the brain, age 18-70 years, cooperative and good in communication. While the exclusion criteria: did not complete filling out the questionnaire because of a critical condition, died, mental disorders, and went home. The sampling technique used consecutive sampling, consisting of 111 patients at RSUP Dr. Kariadi Semarang. Data analysis using Spearman Rho. The results of the study showed that there was a significant relationship between the sex variable and the gastrointestinal symptom cluster with a significance of p<0.05. Age and education level were not associated with symptom clusters. The severity of symptom clusters differs by gender. Women are more severely experiencing symptom clusters than men. Proper identification of age, gender, and level of education is expected to overcome symptom clusters in head and neck cancer.