Publication

Abstract : Background: Radiotherapy (RT) is a usual treatment option for a wide range of cancers. Almost 50% of patients with cancer get radiation throughout their illness. RT has an important role in 40% of all cancer cures. RT induced Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) problems are many and serious. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the effectiveness of planned teaching program on knowledge regarding prevention and management of RT induced oral and GIT toxicity among cancer patients. Methods: A quantitative research using a quasi-experimental design (pretest - post-test control group) on 60 cancer patients (Experimental group-30, Control group-30) between the ages of 20 and 60years using convenience sampling technique. A standardized knowledge questionnaire (30 questions) was used for data collection. Results: Statistically significant difference was found between the posttest knowledge scores of the experimental group and control group (t =7.979; p value 0.000).There was no statistically significant association between the pretest knowledge level on prevention and management of RT induced oral and GIT toxicity with selected demographic variables in the subjects of both the groups at 0.05 level. Conclusion: Oral and GIT toxicity among cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy can be effectively prevented and managed by planned teaching program.