Abstract

AYURVEDIC SUPPORTIVE AND PREVENTIVE CARE IN HEAD AND NECK CANCER PATIENTS UNDERGOING CHEMORADIOTHERAPY: A CASE SERIES OF THREE CASES

Dr. Awez Ahmed*

Abstract

Head and neck cancer patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy frequently develop severe toxicities such as mucositis, dermatitis, xerostomia, and general debility, which significantly affect the quality of life and treatment compliance. Ayurveda, with its principles of Rasayana (rejuvenation) and Pittashamana, may offer supportive benefits in such conditions. This case series presents three cases with head and neck cancer managed with Ayurvedic interventions during different stages of treatment. Two cases with established radiotherapy-induced toxicities showed significant clinical improvement following Ayurvedic treatment, while one patient who received preventive Ayurvedic care did not develop expected complications during radiotherapy. All patients demonstrated improvement in general condition, functional status, and overall quality of life. These findings suggest that Ayurvedic supportive and preventive care may help in reducing treatment-related toxicities and improving patient outcomes. Further large-scale studies are required to validate these observations. This case series highlights the potential of Ayurveda in oncology.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Cancer, Chemoradiotherapy toxicity, Mucositis, Radiation dermatitis.