Degree Name
MS (Master of Science)
Program
Clinical Nutrition
Date of Award
5-2007
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Elizabeth F. Lowe
Committee Members
Alison K. Schaefer, Jamie B. Kridler
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine if patients with head or neck cancer receiving radiation were satisfied with the nutrition counseling they were receiving and if they obtained any benefit. Radiation to the head or neck region promotes side effects such as taste changes and chewing and swallowing difficultly that decrease food and fluid intake. A reduction in nutrients leads to weight loss, and weight loss in cancer patients increases the risk of morbidity and morality as well as decreases quality of life. Subjects were recruited from a local cancer treatment facility and a survey was administered. Subjects were found to manage the side effects better after counseling from the registered dietitian, and a minimal amount of weight loss was observed. Registered dietitians when incorporated into a radiation treatment facility can provide an effective nutrition program targeted at reducing weight loss and improving quality of life.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Watson, Lori E., "Evaluating Satisfaction and Benefit from Nutrition Counseling from a Registered Dietitian among Head and Neck Cancer Patients Receiving Radiation Therapy." (2007). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 2078. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/2078
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.