ASSESSMENT OF SYMPTOM DISTRESS IN ATHLETES UNDERGOING CONCURRENT RADIOTHERAPY AND CHEMOTHERAPY FOR NASOPHARYNGEAL CARCINOMA ACROSS VARIOUS TREATMENT PHASES

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate changes in symptom distress experienced by athletes with nasopharyngeal carcinoma undergoing concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy across different treatment stages and identify factors influencing this distress. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 75 athletes diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma at our institution from February 2022 to February 2023. All participants received a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. We collected general patient data and compared symptom distress scores across various treatment stages. Influencing factors of symptom distress were examined using a generalized estimation equation. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed in symptom distress scores and their impact on quality of life at different treatment stages (P<0.05). Pairwise comparative analysis revealed the order of symptom distress across stages: second stage > third stage > fourth stage > first stage. The generalized estimation equation analysis identified the athlete's place of residence, the presence of family support, and the treatment stage as independent factors influencing symptom distress (P<0.05). Conclusion: Symptom distress in athletes with nasopharyngeal carcinoma increases significantly post-initiation of concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy but decreases over the course of treatment. However, distress levels remain above pre-treatment levels. Factors such as treatment stage, living conditions, and familial support significantly impact symptom distress. Clinicians should provide targeted interventions to manage these factors effectively in athlete patients.