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Aller A, Hauser K, Pedell L, Martinez F, Lin A. Time is of the Essence: Why Goals-of-Care Conversations and Prognosis Documentation Matters in Advanced Cancer Patients in an Integrated Health System. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024; 41:634-640. [PMID: 37592901 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231188715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Advanced cancer patients benefit less from aggressive therapies and more from goal-directed palliative management. Early and clearly documented goals-of-care discussions, including end-of-life decision making, are essential in this patient population. Integrated healthcare systems are comprehensive care models associated with improved quality of care and lower mortality compared to other healthcare models. The role of advance care planning within our system is understudied. Methods: Patients 18 years and older with a diagnosis of advanced-stage cancer were identified over a 6-month period. Expert panel review was performed to evaluate medical appropriateness of the selected diagnostic workup and management. The role and extent of care planning was reviewed in association with the clinical context. Results: In a cohort of 82 patients, evidence-based and individualized appropriateness of medical management was found to be consistent for all patients. Eighty-two percent of patients elected for oncologic-based treatment, 5% pursued active surveillance, and 11% did not receive treatment. Seventy-three percent of patients were referred to palliative care. Fifty-six percent of patients had a full goals-of-care conversation documented; yet only 9% of goals-of-care conversations were documented by an oncologist. Prognosis was documented fully for only 22% of patients. At the end of the study period, 43 patients were deceased (52%), further indicating the critical importance of documentation. Conclusions: Within our integrated health system, we found consistent guideline- and patient-directed diagnosis and management, along with frequent integration of palliative care services. Goals-of-care conversation and prognosis documentation, especially by the oncologist, remains an area of needed improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Aller
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, The Permanente Medical Group, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Karen Hauser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Leon Pedell
- Independent Consultant, West Bloomfield Township, MI, USA
| | - Francisco Martinez
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, The Permanente Medical Group, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Amy Lin
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, The Permanente Medical Group, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Kalavacherla S, Du E, de Cos V, Meller L, Ostrander B, Davis M, Greene J. The Rate of Occult Lesion Diagnosis in a Large Bell's Palsy Cohort. Laryngoscope 2024; 134:911-918. [PMID: 37470296 PMCID: PMC11023743 DOI: 10.1002/lary.30895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We characterize occult lesion diagnosis rates after initial Bell's palsy diagnoses. METHODS A de-identified database of all facial palsy patients who presented to an extensive health care system across 22 years was created using Epic SlicerDicer. Among patients with Bell's palsy diagnoses, we extracted demographic and any subsequent occult lesion diagnosis data across various clinical sites. Descriptive and multivariable regression analyses comparing patients with occult lesion diagnoses made at different time points were included. RESULTS Among the total 3912 facial palsy patients, 2240 had Bell's palsy diagnoses, of which 217 (9.7%) had subsequent lesion diagnoses at a median (IQR) of 12.3 (4.2, 23.8) months, consisting of cranial nerve neoplasms (62.2%), parotid gland neoplasms (34.1%), and cholesteatomas (3.7%). Although a large proportion of total lesions were diagnosed within the first 3 months (19.8%), 69.5% were diagnosed after 6 months. There were no demographic differences among patients diagnosed with different lesion types, but Asian patients were more likely to be diagnosed with occult lesions after 12 months after Bell's palsy diagnosis compared with white patients (odds ratio = 6.2, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In one of the largest Bell's palsy cohorts to date, we identified a 9.7% occult lesion diagnosis rate at a median of 12.3 months after Bell's palsy diagnosis. These data underscore the importance of timely workup for occult lesions in cases of facial palsy with no signs of recovery after 3-4 months. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4 Laryngoscope, 134:911-918, 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandhya Kalavacherla
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Eric Du
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Víctor de Cos
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Leo Meller
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Benjamin Ostrander
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Morgan Davis
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Jacqueline Greene
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
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Fernández-Martínez NF, Petrova D, Špacírová Z, Barrios-Rodríguez R, Pérez-Sayáns M, Martín-delosReyes LM, Pérez-Gómez B, Rodríguez-Barranco M, Sánchez MJ. The duration of intervals on the oral cancer care pathway and implications for survival: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1183244. [PMID: 37614446 PMCID: PMC10442570 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1183244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Previous studies measuring intervals on the oral cancer care pathway have been heterogenous, showing mixed results with regard to patient outcomes. The aims of this research were (1) to calculate pooled meta-analytic estimates for the duration of the patient, diagnostic and treatment intervals in oral cancer, considering the income level of the country, and (2) to review the evidence on the relationship of these three intervals with tumor stage at diagnosis and survival. Materials and methods We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis following PRISMA 2020 guidelines (pre-registered protocol CRD42020200752). Following the Aarhus statement, studies were eligible if they reported data on the length of the patient (first symptom to first presentation to a healthcare professional), diagnostic (first presentation to diagnosis), or treatment (diagnosis to start of treatment) intervals in adult patients diagnosed with primary oral cancer. The risk of bias was assessed with the Aarhus checklist. Results Twenty-eight studies reporting on 30,845 patients met the inclusion criteria. The pooled median duration of the patient interval was 47 days (95% CI = 31-73), k = 18, of the diagnosis interval 35 days (95% CI = 21-38), k = 11, and of the treatment interval 30 days (95% CI = 23-53), k = 19. In lower-income countries, the patient and treatment intervals were significantly longer, and longer patient intervals were related to later stage at diagnosis. In studies with a lower risk of bias from high-income countries, longer treatment intervals were associated with lower survival rates. Conclusion Interval duration on the oral cancer care pathway is influenced by the socio-economic context and may have implications for patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás Francisco Fernández-Martínez
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Dafina Petrova
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Zuzana Špacírová
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Barrios-Rodríguez
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Mario Pérez-Sayáns
- Oral Medicine, Oral Surgery and Implantology Unit (MedOralRes), School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- ORALRES Group, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel Martín-delosReyes
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Pérez-Gómez
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Epidemiology for Chronic Diseases, National Center of Epidemiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Rodríguez-Barranco
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - María José Sánchez
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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Melariri H, Els T, Oyedele O, Suttle TK, Bermosky KT, De Freitas A, Murtaza A, Moosajee M, Melariri PE. Prevalence of locoregional recurrence and survival post-treatment of head and neck cancers in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 59:101964. [PMID: 37125401 PMCID: PMC10139903 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.101964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recurrent cancers of the head and neck are associated with poor survival outcome. Yet, their burden in Africa is not reliably known. We therefore aimed to estimate the prevalence of recurrence and the 5-year overall survival among patients treated for head and neck cancers (HNC) in Africa. Method In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched four electronic databases (Pubmed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Web of Science) and the grey literature for studies reporting the prevalence of HNC recurrence and 5-year overall survival post treatment, published between January 1, 2002, and December 31, 2022. We contacted corresponding authors of relevant studies. Searches were extended to reference lists of review articles and other relevant sources for potentially eligible studies. Each record was assessed for inclusion or exclusion by two independent reviewers. Records with individual-level data on recurrence and survival conducted in Africa were included while exclusion was based on the study design and availability of relevant data. Data were independently extracted by three reviewers from eligible studies, and summary estimates were sought. Our primary outcomes were recurrence and 5-year overall survival of patients who have been treated for HNC, and our secondary outcomes included risk factors, tumor site, squamous cell histology, clinical stage of tumor, and treatment options received. Only records selected for primary outcomes were assessed for secondary outcome data extraction. Random-effects meta-analysis was conducted for each outcome. Meta-regression models were used in addressing sample heterogeneity among the studies. Protocol for this study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42022372307. Findings This systematic review and meta-analysis returned 3998 records, yielding 28 included studies after exclusion. Eighteen studies reported on the prevalence of HNC recurrence while 24 articles reported on the 5-year overall survival. Of the pooled total study population, 7199 (70.5%) of 10,218 patients were males while 2603 (25.5%) were females. We found that the prevalence of HNC recurrence was 15.4% (I2 = 96.2%; 95% CI: 9.5-22.3; n = 3214; k = 18), and the 5-year overall survival was 54.4% (I2 = 99.5%; 95% CI: 40.1-68.4; n = 9798; k = 24). We also found that the prevalence of smoking and alcohol consumption as risk factors for HNC were 42.6% (I2 = 98.8%; 95% CI: 25.2-61.0; n = 4374; k = 15) and 35.8% (I2 = 98.9%; 95% CI: 21.7-51.4; n = 4110; k = 11) respectively. The pooled current prevalence for advanced HNC (clinical stages III-IV) was 80.0% (I2 = 99.2%; 95% CI: 68.6-89.5; n = 7624; k = 18) compared to 12.2% (I2 = 96.4%; 95% CI: 6.2-19.8; n = 7624; k = 18) in early disease (clinical stages I-II). Interpretation The results showed significantly high prevalence of cancer recurrence, poor 5-year overall survival and very high prevalence of advanced cancers at time of diagnosis. This study provides robust evidence for strategies towards prompt diagnosis and appropriate management of HNC to improve patients' outcome in the African continent. Funding This study was not supported by any funding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert Melariri
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Port Elizabeth Provincial Hospital, Gqeberha, South Africa
- Corresponding author. Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Port Elizabeth Provincial Hospital, Buckingham Road, Mount Croix, Gqeberha, South Africa.
| | - Timothy Els
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Port Elizabeth Provincial Hospital, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Opeoluwa Oyedele
- Department of Computing, Mathematical, and Statistical Sciences, School of Science, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Tessa K. Suttle
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Port Elizabeth Provincial Hospital, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Kim Theresa Bermosky
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Port Elizabeth Provincial Hospital, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Adelaide De Freitas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Livingstone Tertiary Hospital, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Amir Murtaza
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Port Elizabeth Provincial Hospital, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Mohamed Moosajee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Port Elizabeth Provincial Hospital, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Paula E. Melariri
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha, South Africa
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5
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Time to Treatment Initiation for Six Cancer Types: An Analysis of Data from a Nationwide Registry in Japan. World J Surg 2023; 47:877-886. [PMID: 36607390 PMCID: PMC9821366 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-022-06883-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delay in the time to treatment initiation (TTI) may adversely affect the survival of patients, but its current status in Japan is unknown. This study aims to describe the TTI for six cancer types: lung, breast, colorectal, stomach, head and neck (H&N), and cervical. Data for this study were derived from a nationwide registry in Japan. METHODS This observational study employed the national database of hospital-based cancer registries (HBCRs) and health services utilization data. Using HBCR data, we identified all patients with cancer who started their cancer therapy at the same hospitals between January 1 and December 31, 2017. We calculated the TTI for each cancer type and treatment option, stratifying the results by age group and geographical region. RESULTS The overall median TTI was 33 days, with shorter TTIs for colorectal and H&N cancers and chemotherapy. The TTI was the shortest for younger patients and the longest for the elderly, especially for lung cancer. When categorized by eight Japanese geographical regions, Tohoku and Kanto had the longest TTI. The result remained the same even after adjusting cancer type, treatment, age, and stage information. CONCLUSION For colorectal and H&N cancers, in which a longer TTI is associated with a poorer prognosis, TTI was found to be particularly shorter. Although we could not discuss our results in light of the patient survival in this study, future research should explore the best balance between thorough evaluation before treatment and necessary time for that.
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Schoonbeek RC, Zwertbroek J, Plaat BEC, Takes RP, Ridge JA, Strojan P, Ferlito A, van Dijk BAC, Halmos GB. Determinants of delay and association with outcome in head and neck cancer: A systematic review. Eur J Surg Oncol 2021; 47:1816-1827. [PMID: 33715909 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2021.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Head and neck cancers (HNC) are relatively fast-growing tumours, and delay in treatment initiation is associated with tumour progression and adverse outcome. An overview of factors contributing to delay can provide critical insights on necessary adjustments to optimize care pathways. This systematic review aims to identify factors associated with delay and summarize the effect of delay on oncological outcome measures. METHODS A search strategy was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines to search electronic databases for studies assessing the carepathway interval (days between first visit in head and neck oncology center and treatment initiation) and/or time-to-treatment-initiation interval (days between histological diagnosis and treatment initiation) and 1) determinants of delay and/or 2) effect of delay on outcome within these timeframes. Due to heterogeneity between included studies, a meta-analysis was not possible. RESULTS Fifty-two studies were eligible for quantitative analysis. Non-Caucasian race, academic setting, Medicaid/no insurance and radiotherapy as primary treatment were associated with delay. Advanced tumour stage was related to increased time-to-treatment initiation in the four common sites combined (oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, larynx). Separate determinants for delay in different tumour locations were identified. In laryngeal, oral cavity cancer and the four common HNC sites combined, delay in start of treatment is associated with decreased overall survival, although no cut-off time point could be determined. CONCLUSION Race, facility type, type of insurance and radiotherapy as primary treatment were associated with delay and subsequent inferior survival in the four common sites combined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanne C Schoonbeek
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Julia Zwertbroek
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Boudewijn E C Plaat
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Robert P Takes
- Radboud University Medical Center, Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525, GA, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - John A Ridge
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Department of Surgical Oncology, Head and Neck Surgery Section, 333 Cottman Avenue, 19111, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Primož Strojan
- Institute of Oncology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Zaloška Cesta 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Alfio Ferlito
- Coordinator of the International Head and Neck Scientific Group, Padua, Italy
| | - Boukje A C van Dijk
- Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Department of Research, Godebaldkwartier 419, 3511, DT, Utrecht, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Epidemiology, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - György B Halmos
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
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Jurica JM, Rubio F, Hernandez DJ, Sandulache VC. Institutional financial toxicity of failure to adhere to treatment guidelines for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Head Neck 2020; 43:816-824. [PMID: 33166016 DOI: 10.1002/hed.26539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delays in treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are known to increase disease recurrence, generating the need for additional salvage treatment, often with immunotherapy. METHODS Three treatment metrics were identified: time from diagnosis to treatment initiation (TTI), time from surgery to postoperative radiotherapy (surg → PORT), and total treatment package time (TPT). Financial toxicity was calculated using hazard ratios, pembrolizumab cost, and dosing data for a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) institutional cohort (n = 338) and a standardized cohort (n = 100). RESULTS Estimated financial toxicity for the VHA cohort was $2 047 407, $316 545, and $1 114 101 for TTI, surg → PORT, and TPT, respectively. Estimated financial toxicity for the standardized patient cohort was $454 028, $544 576, and $1 879 628 for TTI, surg → PORT, and TPT, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Failure to meet established HNSCC treatment metrics generates significant, yet avoidable, institutional financial toxicity which is particularly relevant to integrated single-payer systems such as the VHA in the modern immunotherapy era.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M Jurica
- School of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Felixnando Rubio
- School of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - David J Hernandez
- ENT Section, Operative Care Line, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Bobby R. Alford Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Vlad C Sandulache
- ENT Section, Operative Care Line, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Bobby R. Alford Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Center for Translational Research on Inflammatory Diseases (CTRID), Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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8
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Su WWY, Lee YH, Yen AMF, Chen SLS, Hsu CY, Chiu SYH, Fann JCY, Lee YC, Chiu HM, Hsiao SC, Hsu TH, Chen HH. Impact of treatment delay on survival of oral/oropharyngeal cancers: Results of a nationwide screening program. Head Neck 2020; 43:473-484. [PMID: 33047420 PMCID: PMC7820997 DOI: 10.1002/hed.26504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To assess the impact of treatment delay on survival of oral/oropharyngeal cancer (OSCC). Methods We followed 5743 OSCCs between 2004 and 2009 from a population‐based screening program and ascertained death until the end of 2012. Results The hazard ratios (HRs) of mortality from OSCC were 1.46 (1.30‐1.65) and 1.18 (1.04‐1.33) in univariable and multivariable analyses, respectively, for treatment delay longer than 6 weeks compared with that shorter than 3 weeks. The corresponding figures were 1.12 (1.01‐1.24) and 1.00 (0.91‐1.11) for treatment delay between 3 and 6 weeks. Advancing age (1.01), higher stage (stage II: 1.84, stage III: 2.97, stage IV: 6.33), cancer in tongue (1.37), or hard palate (1.63) had higher HR of mortality (P < .05). However, treatment at medical center had a lower mortality (0.83, 0.75‐0.91) than local/regional hospital. Conclusions Treatment delay longer than 6 weeks for OSCCs detected via a population‐based screening program had unfavorable survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Wang-Yu Su
- Division of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Huah Lee
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Amy Ming-Fang Yen
- School of Oral Hygiene, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sam Li-Sheng Chen
- School of Oral Hygiene, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Yang Hsu
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sherry Yueh-Hsia Chiu
- Department of Health Care Management and Healthy Aging Research Center, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jean Ching-Yuan Fann
- Department of Health Industry Management, College of Healthcare Management, Kainan University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chia Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Innovation and Policy Center for Population Health and Sustainable Environment, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Han-Mo Chiu
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Chun Hsiao
- Health Promotion Administration, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Cancer Prevention and Control Division, Taiwan
| | - Tsui-Hsia Hsu
- Health Promotion Administration, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Cancer Prevention and Control Division, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Hsi Chen
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Kassirian S, Dzioba A, Hamel S, Patel K, Sahovaler A, Palma DA, Read N, Venkatesan V, Nichols AC, Yoo J, Fung K, Mendez A, MacNeil SD. Delay in diagnosis of patients with head-and-neck cancer in Canada: impact of patient and provider delay. Curr Oncol 2020; 27:e467-e477. [PMID: 33173386 PMCID: PMC7606041 DOI: 10.3747/co.27.6547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Head-and-neck cancers (hncs) often present at an advanced stage, leading to poor outcomes. Late presentation might be attributable to patient delays (reluctance to seek treatment, for instance) or provider delays (misdiagnosis, prolonged wait time for consultation, for example). The objective of the present study was to examine the length and cause of such delays in a Canadian universal health care setting. Methods Patients presenting for the first time to the hnc multidisciplinary team (mdt) with a biopsy-proven hnc were recruited to this study. Patients completed a survey querying initial symptom presentation, their previous medical appointments, and length of time between appointments. Clinical and demographic data were collected for all patients. Results The average time for patients to have their first appointment at the mdt clinic was 15.1 months, consisting of 3.9 months for patients to see a health care provider (hcp) for the first time since symptom onset and 10.7 months from first hcp appointment to the mdt clinic. Patients saw an average of 3 hcps before the mdt clinic visit (range: 1-7). No significant differences in time to presentation were found based on stage at presentation or anatomic site. Conclusions At our tertiary care cancer centre, a patient's clinical pathway to being seen at the mdt clinic shows significant delays, particularly in the time from the first hcp visit to mdt referral. Possible methods to mitigate delay include education about hnc for patients and providers alike, and a more streamlined referral system.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kassirian
- Department of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - A Dzioba
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - S Hamel
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - K Patel
- Department of Otolaryngology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, U.S.A
| | - A Sahovaler
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - D A Palma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - N Read
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - V Venkatesan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - A C Nichols
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - J Yoo
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - K Fung
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - A Mendez
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
| | - S D MacNeil
- Department of Otolaryngology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON
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10
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Overall time interval ("Total diagnostic delay") and mortality in symptomatic oral cancer: A U-shaped association. Oral Oncol 2020; 104:104626. [PMID: 32146387 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2020.104626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the impact on survival of the total time interval since the first bodily change (sign/symptom) until the start of treatment in symptomatic oral cancer patients. METHODS Retrospective, hospital-based study designed within the "Aarhus Statement" conceptual framework, using the overall interval to treatment of 183 oral cancer patients to analyse their survival rates. RESULTS Overall time interval (T5): 107.1 ± 85.2 days. Overall survival rate: 58.4 (CI: 51.3-66.4%). Recurrence time (median): 724 days (IQR, 223-2963.5). Median survival time: 1744 days (IQR, 479.5-3438). Overall delay (T5) and mortality showed a U-shaped association, where patients with short (24.0-55.5 days) and long T5 intervals (127.5-420 days) had higher mortality than those with medium T5 intervals (55.5-127.5 days). CONCLUSION There is a non-monotonic association between time interval and mortality. Higher mortality rates are linked to shorter and longer time intervals. This may induce underestimation of the association when time intervals are considered dichotomously.
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11
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Graboyes EM, Kompelli AR, Neskey DM, Brennan E, Nguyen S, Sterba KR, Warren GW, Hughes-Halbert C, Nussenbaum B, Day TA. Association of Treatment Delays With Survival for Patients With Head and Neck Cancer: A Systematic Review. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2020; 145:166-177. [PMID: 30383146 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoto.2018.2716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Importance Delays in the delivery of care for head and neck cancer (HNC) are a key driver of poor oncologic outcomes and thus represent an important therapeutic target. Objective To synthesize information about the association between delays in the delivery of care for HNC and oncologic outcomes. Evidence Review A systematic review of the English-language literature in PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus published between January 1, 2007, and February 28, 2018, was performed to identify articles addressing the association between treatment delays and oncologic outcomes for patients with HNC. Articles that were included (1) addressed cancer of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, or larynx; (2) discussed patients treated in 2004 or later; (3) analyzed time of diagnosis to treatment initiation (DTI), time from surgery to the initiation of postoperative radiotherapy, and/or treatment package time (TPT; the time from surgery through the completion of postoperative radiotherapy); (4) included a clear definition of treatment delay; and (5) analyzed the association between the treatment time interval and an oncologic outcome measure. Quality assessment was performed using the Institute of Health Economics Quality Appraisal Checklist for Case Series Studies. Findings A total of 18 studies met inclusion criteria and formed the basis of the systematic review. Nine studies used the National Cancer Database and 6 studies were single-institution retrospective reviews. Of the 13 studies assessing DTI, 9 found an association between longer DTI and poorer overall survival; proposed DTI delay thresholds ranged from more than 20 days to 120 days or more. Four of the 5 studies assessing time from surgery to the initiation of postoperative radiotherapy (and all 4 studies assessing guideline-adherent time to postoperative radiotherapy) found an association between a timely progression from surgery to the initiation of postoperative radiotherapy and improved overall or recurrence-free survival. Of the 5 studies examining TPT, 4 found that prolonged TPT correlated with poorer overall survival; proposed thresholds for prolonged TPT ranged from 77 days or more to more than 100 days. Conclusions and Relevance Timely care regarding initiation of treatment, postoperative radiotherapy, and TPT is associated with survival for patients with HNC, although significant heterogeneity exists for defining delayed DTI and TPT. Further research is required to standardize optimal time goals, identify barriers to timely care for each interval, and design interventions to minimize delays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M Graboyes
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston.,Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Anvesh R Kompelli
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - David M Neskey
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston.,Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston.,Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Emily Brennan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Shaun Nguyen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Katherine R Sterba
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston.,Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Graham W Warren
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston.,Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | - Chanita Hughes-Halbert
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston.,Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
| | | | - Terry A Day
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston
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12
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Liao DZ, Schlecht NF, Rosenblatt G, Kinkhabwala CM, Leonard JA, Ference RS, Prystowsky MB, Ow TJ, Schiff BA, Smith RV, Mehta V. Association of Delayed Time to Treatment Initiation With Overall Survival and Recurrence Among Patients With Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma in an Underserved Urban Population. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2019; 145:1001-1009. [PMID: 31513264 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoto.2019.2414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance Delay in time to treatment initiation (TTI) can alter survival and oncologic outcomes. There is a need to characterize these consequences and identify risk factors and reasons for treatment delay, particularly in underserved urban populations. Objectives To investigate the association of delayed treatment initiation with outcomes of overall survival and recurrence among patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), to analyze factors that are predictive of delayed treatment initiation, and to identify specific reasons for delayed treatment initiation. Design, Setting, and Participants Retrospective cohort study at an urban community-based academic center. Participants were 956 patients with primary HNSCC treated between February 8, 2005, and July 17, 2017, identified through the Montefiore Medical Center Cancer Registry. Exposures The primary exposure was TTI, defined as the duration between histopathological diagnosis and initial treatment. The threshold for delayed treatment initiation was determined by recursive partitioning analysis. Main Outcomes and Measures Overall survival, recurrence, and reasons for treatment delay. Results Among 956 patients with HNSCC (mean [SD] age, 60.8 [18.2] years; 72.6% male), the median TTI was 40 days (interquartile range, 28-56 days). The optimal TTI threshold to differentiate overall survival was greater than 60 days (20.8% [199 of 956] of patients in our cohort). Independent of other relevant factors, patients with HNSCC with TTI exceeding 60 days had poorer survival (hazard ratio, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.32-2.18). Similarly, TTI exceeding 60 days was associated with greater risk of recurrence (odds ratio, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.07-2.93). Predictors of delayed TTI included African American race/ethnicity, Medicaid insurance, body mass index less than 18.5, and initial diagnosis at a different institution. Commonly identified individual reasons for treatment delay were missed appointments (21.2% [14 of 66]), extensive pretreatment evaluation (21.2% [14 of 66]), and treatment refusal (13.6% [9 of 66]). Conclusions and Relevance Delaying TTI beyond 60 days was associated with decreased overall survival and increased HNSCC recurrence. Identification of predictive factors and reasons for treatment delay will help target at-risk patients and facilitate intervention in hospitals with underserved urban populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Z Liao
- Medical student at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Nicolas F Schlecht
- Department of Pathology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York.,Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York.,Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Gregory Rosenblatt
- Department of Pathology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | | | - James A Leonard
- Medical student at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Ryan S Ference
- Medical student at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Michael B Prystowsky
- Department of Pathology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Thomas J Ow
- Department of Pathology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Bradley A Schiff
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Richard V Smith
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Vikas Mehta
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
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13
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Lopez-Cedrún JL, Otero-Rico A, Vázquez-Mahía I, Seoane J, García-Caballero L, Seoane-Romero JM, Varela-Centelles P. Association between hospital interval and survival in patients with oral cancer: A waiting time paradox. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224067. [PMID: 31652279 PMCID: PMC6814211 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In early diagnosis studies on symptomatic cancer, survival was the most recommended outcome. The magnitude and impact of the patient interval and primary care interval is well-known in oral cancer; however, the hospital interval and its influence on surviving this neoplasia are not well known. AIMS To quantify the interval between the first contact with the specialist and the start of treatment for patients with oral cancer and to evaluate whether there was a link between this interval and disease survival. METHODS We designed a hospital-based study that included 228 patients diagnosed with oral/oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma between 1998 and 2008 at A Coruña University Hospital (Spain) who were followed up until 2016. The data were extracted retrospectively from hospital medical charts. The study interval was defined in the context of the "pathways to treatment" model as the interval from the first specialist visit (start point) to the start of treatment (end point). We calculated the total interval (from first symptom to treatment) to evaluate the relative length of the hospital interval, and we considered the variables age, sex, location, comorbidity and tumour classification stage. Survival time was defined as the interval from the first treatment to death or censoring. RESULTS The median hospital interval was 20 days, with an interquartile range of 15-29.1 days. The most relevant prognostic variable was the tumour stage (III-IV: Exp. ß = 2.8, p = 0.001). The hospital interval was part of the multivariate model, and its association with mortality showed a V-shaped association, where patients with short hospital intervals (3-18 days) and those with long hospital intervals (26-55 days) had significantly higher mortality than those with medium hospital intervals (19-25 days). CONCLUSION The hospital interval represents a relevant interval for the patient's path towards treatment, has prognostic implications and is subject to a severity bias (waiting time paradox) that should be avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Luis Lopez-Cedrún
- Service of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, A Coruña University Hospital (CHUAC), Galician Health Service, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Ana Otero-Rico
- Service of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, A Coruña University Hospital (CHUAC), Galician Health Service, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Inés Vázquez-Mahía
- Service of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, A Coruña University Hospital (CHUAC), Galician Health Service, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Juan Seoane
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialities, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Lucía García-Caballero
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialities, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Juan Manuel Seoane-Romero
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialities, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - Pablo Varela-Centelles
- Praza do Ferrol Health Centre, EOXI Lugo, Cervo e Monforte de Lemos, Galician Health Service, Lugo, Spain
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