Rice Bran Supplementation for Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis in Head and Neck Cancer

Overview

This study aims to find out if taking rice bran supplements can help reduce the painful mouth sores (oral mucositis) that often occur in patients with head and neck cancer who receive radiation therapy. The trial will include adult patients undergoing radiation treatment. Participants will be given rice bran supplements during their therapy to see if it can lessen these side effects and improve their overall quality of life.

Radiation-induced oral mucositis is a common and debilitating side effect experienced by patients undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. This condition causes painful inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes in the mouth, significantly impacting patients' ability to eat, speak, and maintain oral hygiene, thereby reducing their quality of life. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of rice bran, a natural byproduct of rice milling rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, as a dietary supplement to mitigate the severity of oral mucositis. Participants will be adult patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer who are scheduled to receive radiation therapy. The intervention involves administering rice bran supplements concurrently with radiation treatment. The study aims to evaluate the effects of rice bran on the incidence, duration, and severity of oral mucositis, as well as its overall impact on patients' quality of life during and after treatment. By assessing clinical outcomes and patient-reported measures, this trial seeks to provide evidence on whether rice bran can serve as an effective, low-cost, and accessible supportive care option for managing radiation-induced oral mucositis.