Researchers from Indiana University and the University of South Florida have uncovered important findings regarding the long-term effects of cisplatin-based chemotherapy on cancer survivors. The interdisciplinary study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Oncology, specifically tracked testicular cancer survivors who had undergone cisplatin-based chemotherapy for an average of 14 years.
The study revealed that 78% of the survivors experienced significant hearing difficulties in everyday situations, adversely impacting their quality of life. This is the first study to investigate the progression of hearing loss and real-world listening challenges in cancer survivors over an extended period.
Robert Frisina, distinguished university professor and chair of the USF Department of Medical Engineering, emphasized the importance of understanding the real-world effects of sensory problems in patients. “If we can understand that, then we can develop better therapeutic strategies and preventive measures to improve the long-term quality of life for cancer survivors,” Frisina stated.
Cisplatin, commonly used in chemotherapy treatments for various cancers such as bladder, lung, neck, and testicular, is administered intravenously. While it affects various parts of the body, the ears are particularly vulnerable due to their limited ability to filter out the drug. This leads to inflammation and the destruction of sensory cells vital for coding sound, resulting in permanent hearing loss that can worsen long after treatments are completed.
Despite the known risks, there is a nationwide lack of routine hearing assessments for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Victoria Sanchez, associate professor in the USF Health Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, highlighted the need for regular auditory evaluations to manage and mitigate long-term hearing damage. “Most patients still do not get their hearing tested before, during, or after chemotherapy,” Sanchez noted.
The research team found that higher doses of cisplatin correlated with more severe and progressive hearing loss, particularly in patients with risk factors such as high blood pressure and poor cardiovascular health. These patients also faced increased difficulty hearing in common environments, such as loud restaurants.
Dr. Lois B. Travis, Lawrence H. Einhorn Professor of Cancer Research at Indiana University School of Medicine and a researcher at the IU Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center stressed the importance of lifelong follow-up for these patients. The hope is that this study will inspire further investigation into alternative chemotherapeutic protocols and preventive measures. Frisina suggested that the findings provide oncologists with the information needed to explore alternative treatment plans that could reduce long-term side effects. This could include altering the dosages and timing of cisplatin when appropriate.
This comprehensive study shows the need for regular auditory monitoring in cancer patients undergoing cisplatin-based chemotherapy and highlights the potential for new treatment strategies to mitigate long-term hearing damage.
