The Impact of Providing Evidence-Based Arabic Educational Resources to Head and Neck Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy in Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Radiotherapy continues to be a cornerstone treatment in head and neck cancer management despite the potential related adverse events. However, the availability of evidence-based Arabic patient educational materials on radiotherapy for cancer patients and caregivers is limited, which significantly impacts patient understanding, compliance, and decision-making. This is a prospective survey-based study of 30 head and neck cancer patients undergoing radical intent radiotherapy after receiving educational materials in electronic leaflets and videos. These were distributed to patients and their caregivers during their first clinical visit using a quick response code (QR Code) or near-field communication (NFC) tag. At the end of radiotherapy, we surveyed to assess the impact of the educational material on ER visits, stress levels, self-care, and treatment-related anxiety. Of the 30 head and neck cancer patients, 29 (97%) preferred audiovisual materials over leaflets, citing it was easier to follow and understand. About 18 (60%) reported that they are "highly likely" or likely to seek additional information regarding their condition online. The majority of patients reported that the material improved treatment understanding increased their awareness of self-care 27 (90%), alleviated treatment-related anxiety 21 (70%), and reduced the need for unnecessary ER visits 20 (67%). Arabic speakers undergoing radiotherapy to the head and neck region benefited greatly from providing evidence-based Arabic educational material. Patients preferred audio-visual education over reading material. Patient education translated into better patient satisfaction, improved self-care, and reduced anxiety leading to a reduction in unnecessary ER visits according to our subset of patients.