Journal – American Society of Clinical Oncology Educational Book
Article type – Journal research article – Clinical research
Publication date – Apr – 2022
Authors – June Corry, Wai Tong Ng, Sung Jun Ma, Anurag K. Singh, Pauline de Graeff, Sjoukje F. Oosting
Keywords – chemotherapy, head, neck cancer, radiotherapy
Open access – Yes
Speciality – ENT surgery, General surgery, Maxillofacial and oral surgery, Surgical oncology
World region Global

Language – English
Submitted to the One Surgery Index on May 3, 2022 at 11:43 pm
Abstract:

Within the global head and neck cancer population, there are subgroups of patients with poorer cancer outcomes independent from tumor characteristics. In this article, we review three such groups. The first group comprises patients with nasopharyngeal cancer in low- and middle-income countries where access to high-volume, well-resourced radiotherapy centers is limited. We discuss a recent study that is aiming to improve outcomes through the instigation of a comprehensive radiotherapy quality assurance program. The second group comprises patients with low socioeconomic status in a high-income country who experience substantial financial toxicity, defined as financial hardship for patients due to health care costs. We review causes and consequences of financial toxicity and discuss how it can be mitigated. The third group comprises older patients who may poorly tolerate and not benefit from intensive standard-of-care treatment. We discuss the role of geriatric assessment, particularly in relation to the use of chemotherapy. Through better recognition and understanding of disadvantaged groups within the global head and neck cancer population, we will be better placed to instigate the necessary changes to improve outcomes and quality of life for patients with head and neck cancer.

OSI Number – 21584

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