Levantamento do acesso ao atendimento odontológico e avaliação bucal de pacientes em tratamento oncológico no Hospital Universitário de Sergipe

Abstract

Cancer is a term used to group a set of diseases that develop from the loss of control of cell division. There are several types of cancer, so there are multiple forms of treatment, such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, etc. Among the proposed treatments, these cannot invade only the cancerous tissue, resulting in impacts on the individual's normal cells. In the oral cavity, the effects of these therapies can be: mucositis, xerostomia, dysgeusia and osteonecrosis. Therefore, it is recommended that all patients undergo dental follow-up before, during and after cancer treatment, to help them maintain dignified living conditions. Thus, the objective of this study was to conduct a survey of access to dental care for patients undergoing cancer treatment at the University Hospital of Sergipe, as well as to verify their oral conditions. A questionnaire with sociodemographic data and access to dental care was applied, in addition to an assessment of oral health. The sample consisted of 100 participants, and the data collection period was from October 2023 to January 2024. Regarding oral conditions, it was found that 43% had dental care more than 2 years ago and only 11% were being followed by a dentist (DS). When verifying the oral conditions of those evaluated, it was observed that 18% had root remains and 14% had open dental cavities, requiring urgent dental intervention. When asked whether the patients were referred to the DS by the doctor who treated them, 70% answered no. Of the total who were referred to the DS, 80% sought dental services, of which 87% via the public health service. The oral health of patients requires dental care and is being neglected due to the lack of referral to the DS.