ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Patients diagnosed with oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) make up about 3% of all new cancer cases in the United States, with increasing numbers of these patients being diagnosed aged younger than 45 years and with human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive disease. Treatment effects may alter patients' physical and mental states during and after treatment. OBJECTIVES: This article provides an overview of possible OPC treatment long-term effects to equip oncology nurses with information needed to empower patients with OPC to perform self-care. METHODS: The OPC literature was reviewed to identify incidence, survival, risk factors, symptoms, treatment options, and treatment effects. FINDINGS: This article provides a foundation for the plan of care for patients with OPC and strategies for patients to contribute to their self-care.
