PSYCHO-ONCOLOGY IN ORAL CANCER PATIENTS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW FROM AN ORAL MEDICINE SPECIALIST'S PERSPECTIVE

DR. RAJAMOHAN RADHAMANI MAHENDRA RAJ, DR. VARNA MAHENDRA RAJ, DR. VARSHA MENON MAHENDRA RAJ, DR. SURENDRAN PONNUSAMY, DR. ABIRAMI MOORTHY

Oral cancer imposes a profound psychological and psychosocial burden on affected individuals, in addition to significant functional and anatomical challenges. Rates of anxiety, depression, fear of cancer recurrence (FCR), and impaired quality of life (QOL) are documented as substantially higher in this population compared to many other cancers, influenced by tumour site, treatment extent, demographic factors, and coping styles. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence relating to psychological morbidity, determinants of distress, caregiver burden, and validated psycho-oncological interventions that are essential in oral cancer healthcare. It further underscores the evolving role of oral medicine specialists in early psychological screening, distress recognition, interdisciplinary support, and long-term psychosocial follow-up. The review emphasizes the need for comprehensive, culturally competent psycho-oncological integration within oral cancer care to enhance treatment adherence, functional recovery, and survivorship outcomes.