Evaluation of Chemotherapy-Induced Toxicities and Quality of Life Using FACT-G7 in Cancer Patients

Background: Chemotherapy remains an essential modality in cancer treatment but is frequently associated with adverse drug reactions (ADRs) that can affect treatment adherence and quality of life. Head and neck cancers (HNCs) constitute a major cancer burden in India, where platinum- and taxane-based regimens are commonly used. Monitoring the pattern and impact of ADRs is crucial for optimizing therapy and ensuring patient safety. The objective is to evaluate the patterns, severity, causality, and preventability of chemotherapy-induced ADRs among cancer patients in a tertiary care center and to assess their impact on quality of life. Material and Methods: A prospective, observational study was conducted over six months among 221 cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, with or without concurrent radiotherapy or surgery. Data were collected on patient demographics, treatment regimens, and ADR profiles. Causality, severity, and preventability were assessed using the Naranjo Probability Scale, Hartwig and Siegel Severity Scale, and Modified Schumock and Thornton Criteria, respectively. Quality of life was evaluated using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–General (FACT-G7) questionnaire. Results: The most affected age group was 41–50 years (33.9%), with a male predominance (59.7%). Head and neck cancers were most common (42.5%), particularly buccal mucosa (21.7%) and tongue (10.9%) cancers, followed by breast carcinoma (17.1%). The most frequently reported ADRs were nausea and vomiting (50.2%), fatigue (45.7%), onycholysis (33.9%), decreased appetite (31.2%), and anemia (27.1%). Cisplatin was the drug most commonly associated with ADRs (52.1%), followed by paclitaxel + carboplatin (14.0%). According to the Hartwig scale, 64.7% of ADRs were mild, 29.8% moderate, and 5.4% severe. The Naranjo scale classified most as possible (64.2%) and probable (27.1%). Based on the Schumock and Thornton criteria, 57.8% were not preventable, 24.3% probably avoidable, and 17.9% definitely avoidable. Conclusion: ADRs are common among cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, though most are mild to moderate and manageable. Cisplatin-based regimens are the leading cause of ADRs. Strengthening pharmacovigilance systems and conducting regular quality-of-life assessments can help detect, prevent, and manage ADRs early, thereby improving patient outcomes and therapeutic safety. Keywords: Adverse drug reaction, Chemotherapy, Cisplatin, Pharmacovigilance, Cancer, Quality of life, Head, and neck cancer.