Effectiveness of Virgin Coconut Oil in Preventing Radiation-induced Dermatitis in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Radiotherapy at Lopburi Cancer Hospital

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among patients receiving radiotherapy at Lopburi Cancer Hospital. Radiotherapy is an effective treatment for breast cancer; however, radiation-induced skin reactions are frequent adverse effects. Recognizing the importance of this issue, this study was conducted to compare the effects of virgin coconut oil with standard nursing care in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Objectives: To compare the effects of virgin coconut oil and standard nursing care on radiation-induced skin reactions in breast cancer patients receiving radiotherapy. Methods: This experimental study was conducted in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy at Lopburi Cancer Hospital. The control group (n = 34) received standard nursing care, while the intervention group (n = 34) received virgin coconut oil in addition to standard care. Research instruments included a structured questionnaire and a skin assessment form. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results: The control and intervention groups were comparable in baseline characteristics, including age, sex, education, occupation, radiation dose, and radiation technique. During weeks 1–2, no significant difference in the incidence of radiation-induced skin reactions was observed between the two groups (p = 0.493). From weeks 3–6, patients in the control group developed grade 1–2 skin reactions, while no skin reactions were observed in the intervention group. Conclusions: Virgin coconut oil was effective in delaying the onset of radiation-induced skin reactions in breast cancer patients receiving radiotherapy. It also alleviated discomfort such as dryness, itching, tightness, cracking, and secondary skin infections.