Assessing the Impact of Nutritional Status on the Quality of Life in Head and Neck Cancer Patients-The Need for...

Background/Objectives: Malnutrition is a key determinant of quality of life (QoL) in patients with head and neck cancers (HNCs), influencing treatment outcomes and the occurrence of adverse events (AEs). Despite there being numerous studies on nutritional status and QoL, there is no standardized risk or prognostic model integrating clinical and demographic factors. Methods: A literature search was conducted in September 2024 in Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science, covering studies published between 2013 and 2024. Articles were selected based on their relevance to AEs, nutritional interventions, and QoL assessments in HNC patients. Results: The key factors influencing QoL in HNC patients include age, sex, weight, BMI, educational level, and tumor features. Mucositis was identified as the most significant food intake-impairing AE, contributing to malnutrition and reduced QoL. Current QoL assessments rely on descriptive questionnaires, which lack personalization and predictive capabilities. Digital tools, including machine learning models and digital twins, offer potential solutions for risk prediction and personalized nutritional interventions. Conclusions: Despite significant research efforts, QoL assessment in HNC patients remains non-uniform, and risk models integrating nutritional status are lacking. A comprehensive, personalized approach is needed, leveraging digital tools to improve nutritional intervention strategies.