Nutrition Support for Patients with Head and Neck Cancer: A Workshop Model for Dysphagia Diet Awareness

Abstract

Purpose: In super-aging societies, prosthodontists will have a growing role and will need to improve their nutrition knowledge. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a workshop-based model for increasing dysphagia diet awareness among prosthodontists working with head and neck cancer patients. Methods: The study had a post-intervention design and included 10 maxillofacial prosthetic educators from eight countries who participated in a 120-minute workshop focused on theoretical and practical training in nutrition support for patients with dysphagia. Sessions were held in a specialized restaurant in Tokyo and included lectures, observation of Japanese cooking techniques, hands-on preparation of dysphagia-friendly foods, and cross-cultural comparisons. Knowledge, confidence, and practical application were assessed using a post-workshop questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to evaluate outcomes. Results: Seven of the 10 prosthodontists completed the post-intervention questionnaire. All respondents reported overall satisfaction with the workshop. Session content was regarded as easy to understand by 57.14%, appropriate by 28.57%, and easy by 14.29%. Most respondents (85.71%) were “very satisfied” with the instructors’ explanations, and 100% were “very satisfied” with the workshop’s length and structure; 71.42% felt they could apply the knowledge in clinical practice, while 28.58% anticipated challenges. The respondents appreciated the workshop’s focus on dysphagia, particularly in elderly patients, and valued the insights into Japanese dysphagia diets and culture. Conclusions: Workshops on nutrition provide an interactive platform for prosthodontists to enhance their knowledge and improve comprehensive patient care, highlighting the importance for prosthodontists to stay updated on developments in nutrition, particularly in dysphagia.