Socioeconomic and Other Demographic Disparities Predicting Survival among Head and Neck Cancer Patients

Assessing survival outcomes of patients with oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma: Focus on age, sex, and stage

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to provide further insights into whether age and/or sex are associated with prognosis in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study utilizing hospital registry data from 2006 to 2016 obtained from the National Cancer Database. Identified patients were divided into various cohorts based on age, sex, and staging. A descriptive analysis was performed using chi-square tests and overall survival rates were estimated using Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

A total of 17 642 patients were included in the study. The 5-year overall survival rates were 82.0% (95% CI: 79.8%-84.0%) in younger patients versus 67.5% (95% CI: 66.7%-68.3%, p-value <0.0001) older patients. The median overall survival for females was 143.4 months (95% CI: 133.2-NA) versus 129.8 (95% CI: 125.4-138.7, p-value <0.0001) in males.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis suggests that younger age and female sex are both predictors of improved survival in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma.

Socioeconomic Disparities in Postoperative Outcomes of Osteocutaneous Fibula Free Flaps for Head and Neck Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Osteocutaneous fibula free flaps (FFFs) are a fundamental component of reconstructive surgery in the head and neck region, particularly after traumatic injuries or oncologic resections. Despite their utility, FFFs are associated with various postoperative complications, such as infection, flap failure, and donor site morbidity, impacting up to 54% of cases. This study aimed to investigate the influence of socioeconomic variables, with a particular focus on median household income (MHI), on the incidence of postoperative complications in FFF reconstruction for head and neck cancer.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 80 patients who underwent FFF reconstruction for head and neck cancer at a single center from 2016 to 2022 was conducted. Demographic and patient characteristics, including race, MHI, insurance type, history of radiation therapy, and TNM (tumor, node, metastasis) cancer stage, were evaluated. Logistic regression, controlling for comorbidities, was used to assess the impact of MHI on 30-, 90-, and 180-day postoperative complications.

RESULTS

The patient population was predominantly male (n = 51, 63.8%) and White (n = 63, 78.8%), with the majority falling within the $55,000 to $100,000 range of MHI (n = 51, 63.8%). Nearly half of the patients had received neoadjuvant radiation treatment (n = 39, 48.75%), and 36.25% (n = 29) presented with osteoradionecrosis. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the $55,000-$100,000 MHI group had significantly lower odds of developing complications in the 0- to 30-day postoperative period when compared with those in the <$55,000 group (odds ratio [OR], 0.440; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.205-0.943; P = 0.035). This trend persisted in the 31- to 90-day period (OR, 0.136; 95% CI, 0.050-0.368; P < 0.001) and was also observed in the likelihood of flap takeback. In addition, the $100,000-$150,000 group had significantly lower odds of developing complications in the 31- to 90-day period (OR, 0.182; 95% CI, 0.035-0.940; P = 0.042). No significant difference was found in the >$150,000 group.

CONCLUSIONS

Median household income is a significant determinant and potentially a more influential factor than neoadjuvant radiation in predicting postoperative complications after FFF reconstruction. Disparities in postoperative outcomes based on income highlight the need for substantial health care policy shifts and the development of targeted support strategies for patients with lower MHI.

Causes and Ways of Death in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer

Importance

There is limited literature on the exact causes and ways of death in patients with head and neck cancer. To provide optimal care, especially in the palliative phase, more information on this is needed.

Objective

To provide insights into the causes and ways of death among patients with head and neck cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study included a consecutive population of patients who received a diagnosis of primary squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck between January 2006 and December 2013 who were treated in the Erasmus MC. Patient data were merged with nonpublic microdata from Statistics Netherlands. Follow-up time was specified as the date of diagnosis until death or December 3, 2019, whichever came first. The data were checked and reanalyzed in November 2023.

Main outcomes and Measures

Causes (eg, head and neck cancer, other cancer) and ways (eg, natural death, suicide) of death.

Results

A total of 1291 patients (59.2%; 342 women [26.5%]) died during follow-up (median [IQR] follow-up, 2.7 [1.2-5.6] years). The main cause of death was head and neck cancer (557 [43.1%]), followed by the competing cause of other cancers (344 [26.6%]). In total, 240 patients (18.6%) received palliative sedation and 70 patients (5.4%) euthanasia. Compared with patients with head and neck cancer as the underlying cause of death, lower odds ratios (ORs) were observed for receiving palliative sedation (OR, 0.32 vs 0.07; 95% CI, 0.22-0.46 vs 0.03-0.12) and euthanasia (OR, 0.22 vs 0.01; 95% CI, 0.11-0.41 vs 0-0.107) in patients with other causes of death. Patients with a middle and high income had higher ORs for receiving palliative sedation (OR, 1.46 vs 1.86; 95% CI, 1.05-2.04 vs 1.22-2.85) or euthanasia (OR, 2.25 vs 3.37; 95% CI, 1.18-4.3, 1.6-7.12) compared with low-income patients. Retired patients had lower ORs for receiving palliative sedation or euthanasia compared with employed patients (OR, 0.56 vs 0.44; 95% CI, 0.39-0.8 vs 0.24-0.82).

Conclusion and Relevance

The results of this cohort study suggest that more than half of the patients died of competing causes and palliative sedation and euthanasia were more common in patients with head and neck cancer as the underlying cause of death. Patients with a higher socioeconomic status had higher odds of receiving palliative sedation and euthanasia. These insights may support health care professionals in providing patient-centered care, especially for patients in the palliative phase.

Neighborhood Deprivation and Symptoms, Psychological Distress, and Quality of Life Among Head and Neck Cancer Survivors

Importance

Socioeconomic deprivation is associated with increased risk of poor health and quality-of-life (QOL) outcomes in head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors. However, there are few data on how neighborhood deprivation affects patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in HNC survivors.

Objective

To investigate whether neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation is associated with symptom burden, psychological distress, and QOL among HNC survivors.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used prospectively collected data from patients seen in a university-affiliated multidisciplinary HNC survivorship clinic between September 2018 and September 2021 who received radiotherapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, oropharynx, and larynx or hypopharynx.

Exposure

Neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation, measured using the Area Deprivation Index (ADI).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The PROMs pertaining to symptom burden and severity of psychological distress were measured using the Neck Disability Index, Insomnia Severity Index, the 10-item Eating Assessment Tool, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale, and the 8-item Patient Health Questionnaire. Physical and social-emotional QOL were obtained using the University of Washington QOL questionnaire. Multivariable linear regression analysis adjusting for individual-level sociodemographic, comorbidity, and treatment characteristics investigated the association between ADI and PROMs. A subgroup analysis was performed to compare the lowest (most affluent areas: ADI, 0%-20%) and highest (most deprived areas: ADI, 80%-100%) ADI quintiles.

Results

A total of 277 patients were included in the final analysis (mean [SD] age, 64.18 [9.60] years; 215 [77.6%] male). Cancer sites were the oral cavity (52 [18.8%]), oropharyngeal area (171 [61.7%]), and larynx or hypopharynx (54 [19.5%]). Multivariable analysis showed that for every 1-point increase in ADI, social-emotional QOL changed by -0.14 points (95% CI, -0.24 to -0.05 points), anxiety increased by 0.03 points (95% CI, 0.01-0.06 points), and neck disability worsened by 0.05 points (95% CI, 0.01-0.10 points). Compared with patients in the most affluent areas, those in the most deprived areas had significantly lower physical (-15.89 points; 95% CI, -25.96 to -2.31 points; Cohen d = -0.83) and social-emotional (-13.57 points; 95% CI, -22.79 to -3.49 points; Cohen d = -0.69) QOL and higher depression (2.60 points; 95% CI, 0.21-4.40 points; Cohen d = 0.52), anxiety (3.12 points; 95% CI, 1.56-4.66 points; Cohen d = 0.61), insomnia (3.55 points; 95% CI, 0.33-6.41 points; Cohen d = 0.54), and neck disability (5.65 points; 95% CI, 1.66-9.55 points; Cohen d = 0.66) scores.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study, a higher ADI score was associated with higher risk of increased psychological distress, higher symptom burden, and decreased QOL after treatment among HNC survivors. These findings suggest that proactive, patient-centered interventions are needed to address these disparities.

Racial Disparities in Surgical Management For Early-Stage Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Recurrent Dysplasia

Objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between race and the treatment of laryngeal dysplasia and early-stage laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC).

Study design

Retrospective Cohort Study.

Setting

Large multispecialty academic medical center.

Methods

Patients were treated for laryngeal dysplasia or LSCC between September 2019 and September 2022. A retrospective chart review was conducted to collect demographic and clinical information. Two-sample t tests, chi-square tests, and linear regression models were used to compare characteristics (α = 0.05). Analyses were performed in STATA 17.

Results

Sixty-five patients were identified that underwent potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) transoral laser microsurgery for management of early-stage LSCC (n = 29) or dysplasia (n = 36). The cohort consisted of 23 Black and 42 White patients. No significant difference was found in age, alcohol or tobacco use, rate of adjuvant radiotherapy, stage of disease, nor insurance status between the 2 groups. White patients underwent more procedures to address initial disease and subsequent recurrent dysplasia on average than Black patients (2.52 vs 1.52, P = .02). This remained true after adjusting for demographic and clinical characteristics and insurance status in a linear regression model. While Black patients were more likely to be lost to follow-up than White patients (30.4% vs 9.5%, P = .03), the average number of procedures between the groups still differed significantly (2.63 vs 1.56, P = .04) when controlling for those lost to follow-up.

Conclusion

The findings presented here highlight potential inequities that exist for racial minorities at early stages of treatment and in addressing premalignant conditions, which may contribute to the known downstream disparities in laryngeal cancer outcomes.

Factors Associated with Total Laryngectomy Utilization in Patients with cT4a Laryngeal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Despite recommendations for upfront total laryngectomy (TL), many patients with cT4a laryngeal cancer (LC) instead undergo definitive chemoradiation, which is associated with inferior survival. Sociodemographic and oncologic characteristics associated with TL utilization in this population are understudied.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study utilized hospital registry data from the National Cancer Database to analyze patients diagnosed with cT4a LC from 2004 to 2017. Patients were stratified by receipt of TL, and patient and facility characteristics were compared between the two groups. Logistic regression analyses and Cox proportional hazards methodology were performed to determine variables associated with receipt of TL and with overall survival (OS), respectively. OS was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared between treatment groups using log-rank testing. TL usage over time was assessed.

RESULTS

There were 11,149 patients identified. TL utilization increased from 36% in 2004 to 55% in 2017. Treatment at an academic/research program (OR 3.06) or integrated network cancer program (OR 1.50), male sex (OR 1.19), and Medicaid insurance (OR 1.31) were associated with increased likelihood of undergoing TL on multivariate analysis (MVA), whereas age > 61 (OR 0.81), Charlson-Deyo comorbidity score ≥ 3 (OR 0.74), and clinically positive regional nodes (OR 0.78 [cN1], OR 0.67 [cN2], OR 0.21 [cN3]) were associated with decreased likelihood. Those undergoing TL with post-operative radiotherapy (+/- chemotherapy) had better survival than those receiving chemoradiation (median OS 121 vs. 97 months; p = 0.003), and TL + PORT was associated with lower risk of death compared to chemoradiation on MVA (HR 0.72; p = 0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

Usage of TL for cT4a LC is increasing over time but remains below 60%. Patients seeking care at academic/research centers are significantly more likely to undergo TL, highlighting the importance of decreasing barriers to accessing these centers. Increased focus should be placed on understanding and addressing the additional patient-, physician-, and system-level factors that lead to decreased utilization of surgery.

Unmet Needs and Receipt of Supportive Care Services in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Prior to Oncologic Treatment: A Prospective, Cross-Sectional Pilot Study

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the supportive care (SC) needs and receipt of SC services among head and neck cancer (HNC) patients prior to oncologic treatment and to explore the influence of social determinants of health on these outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Newly diagnosed HNC patients were surveyed via telephone prior to oncologic treatment between 10/2019 and 1/2021 using a prospective, cross-sectional, bi-institutional, pilot study design. The primary study outcome was unmet SC needs (Supportive Care Needs Survey-Short Form34 [SCNS-SF34]). Hospital type (university- vs county safety-net) was explored as an exposure. Descriptive statistics were performed using STATA16 (College Station, TX).

RESULTS

Among 158 potentially eligible patients, 129 were successfully contacted, 78 met the study criteria, and 50 completed the survey. The mean age was 61, 58% exhibited clinical stage III-IV disease, and 68% and 32% were treated at the university and county safety-net hospital, respectively. Patients were surveyed a median of 20 days after their first oncology visit and 17 days prior to initiation of oncology treatment. They had a median of 24 total needs (11 were met and 13 were unmet) and preferred to see a median of 4 SC services but received care from none. County safety-net patients had comparatively more unmet needs than university patients (14.5 vs 11.5, P = .04).

CONCLUSION

Pretreatment HNC patients at a bi-institutional academic medical center report a high number of unmet SC needs with corollary poor receipt of available SC services. Novel interventions to address this significant gap in care are needed.

Socioeconomic disparities in treatment and survival in patients with hypopharyngeal malignancy

BACKGROUND

This retrospective study utilizes The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database to investigate socioeconomic factors leading to treatment disparities in hypopharyngeal malignancy.

METHODS

Treatment was compared to National Cancer Care Network guidelines. Novel analyses, including logistic modeling, allowed survival analysis and identification of socioeconomic variables not previously considered in staging and management guidelines.

RESULTS

Black and older patients, and residence in low-income areas predict lower likelihood of standard therapy (p < 0.05). Early-stage disease and standard therapy correlate with improved survival (p < 0.001). Medicaid, advanced age, advanced disease, and treatment outside of consensus guidelines correlated with lower survival (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

There are clear socioeconomic factors impacting treatment and survival in hypopharyngeal malignancies. Standard therapy affords superior survival rate. Black, low socioeconomic status, and older patients are less likely to receive standard therapy. Education and language isolation do not predict treatment or survival. Understanding these discrepancies is paramount to palliating disparities in healthcare.

Are sex and gender considered in head and neck cancer clinical studies?

We analyzed the inclusion of sex and/or gender (S/G) in Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) clinical studies, through inspecting ClinicalTrials.gov (AACT) and the mention of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) on a specific subgroup, namely oral cavity, larynx and oropharynx. Only 5% of HNC studies mention S/G as a planned analytical variable. Proportionally more observational studies treated S/G as an analytical variable than interventional studies (10% vs 5%, P-value ≤ 0.001), 8% of studies that mentioned S/G involved more than 100 subjects while 4% less than 100 (P-value ≤ 0.001). In randomized protocols, S/G was mentioned more in studies with a planned sample of more than 100 patients and including HPV status (P-value < 0.05). Small controlled studies have lower mention of S/G as an analytical variable than uncontrolled studies (4% and 10%, respectively among studies with less than 100 subjects). Significantly greater mention of S/G as an analytical variable is observed in controlled and randomized studies with a sample size greater than 100 subjects. HPV was mentioned in only 18% of oral cavity-larynx-oropharynx studies. Interventional studies do not regularly account for S/G during HNC study design. Thus, although fundamental, in studies concerning HNC the S/G variable is often not considered. In trials published in scientific journals (P-value = 0.01) and in more recent clinical trials (P-value = 0.002), S/G is taken more into account suggesting an increasing awareness on its importance. However, the need to systematically include S/G in study design clearly emerges, to better highlight sex-related differences in disease incidence and prognosis and best imbue science and medicine with the proper biological and cultural differences.

Obstacles for patients with a low socio-economic status treated within the head and neck cancer pathway: A multiple case study

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork exploring various head and neck cancer treatment pathways of patients with low socio-economic status being treated with radiation therapy in Denmark, our aim was to explore how and why inequality in this treatment pathway might occur in the encounter between these patients and Danish healthcare.

BACKGROUND

In recent years, inequality in cancer treatment of patients with a low socio-economic status has been a growing concern worldwide. The majority of patients with head and neck cancer have a relatively low socio-economic status and are at risk of experiencing inequality in their cancer treatment.

DESIGN/METHODS

Using a method proposed by Robert Yin, we performed a multiple case study of five treatment pathways of patients with a low socio-economic status. The case studies consisted of participant observations and interviews with patients, relatives and health professionals. We applied Herbert Blumer's theory of symbolic interaction as a framework for our analysis.

RESULTS

We identified three concepts that all blocked joint action because patients and health professionals had different perceptions of what interaction required of them in terms of (1) Understanding information; (2) Assuming responsibility for managing practical tasks; and (3) Coordinating one's own treatment pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified how different situations challenged the patients' abilities to assume participation in their own treatment pathway. In their encounter with patients, healthcare professionals did not know which situational impediments to joint action patients were facing.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

We argue that being aware of how challenges unfold in the interaction with patients with low socio-economic status may serve as a starting point for changing practice to reduce inequality in the treatment of these patients.

REPORTING METHOD

This study is reported using consolidated criteria for reporting Qualitative research (SRQR). We used the theory and method of Robert Yin of performing a multi-case study and we applied Herbert Blumer's theory of Symbolic interactionism as a framework for understanding data.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

No patient or public contribution.

Perioperative opioids and survival outcomes in resectable head and neck cancer: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Opioids are a mainstay in pain control for oncologic surgery. The objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the associations of perioperative opioid use with overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with resectable head and neck cancer (HNC).

METHODS

A systematic review of PubMed, SCOPUS, and CINAHL between 2000 and 2022 was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Studies investigating perioperative opioid use for patients with HNC undergoing surgical resection and its association with OS and DFS were included.

RESULTS

Three thousand three hundred seventy-eight studies met initial inclusion criteria, and three studies representing 562 patients (intraoperative opioids, n = 463; postoperative opioids, n = 99) met final exclusion criteria. One study identified that high intraoperative opioid requirement in oral cancer surgery was associated with decreased OS (HR = 1.77, 95% CI 0.995-3.149) but was not an independent predictor of decreased DFS. Another study found that increased intraoperative opioid requirements in treating laryngeal cancer was demonstrated to have a weak but statistically significant inverse relationship with DFS (HR = 1.001, p = 0.02) and OS (HR = 1.001, p = 0.02). The last study identified that patients with chronic opioid after resection of oral cavity cancer had decreased DFS (HR = 2.7, 95% CI 1.1-6.6) compared to those who were not chronically using opioids postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

An association may exist between perioperative opioid use and OS and DFS in patients with resectable HNC. Additional investigation is required to further delineate this relationship and promote appropriate stewardship of opioid use with adjunctive nonopioid analgesic regimens.

Expression of circulating tumour cells in oral squamous cell carcinoma: An ex vivo pilot study

Introduction

Despite advances in diagnostics and therapeutics, two-thirds of oral cancer patients present with advanced disease, which increases both the morbidity and mortality risk. Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) are released in the circulation by primary tumours and have been demonstrated to have significant correlations between their occurrence and disease progression.

Objectives

To characterize the circulating tumour cells in subjects with histologically diagnosed oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Materials and Methods

This pilot study was undertaken with ten fresh blood samples (6 ml each). Five samples from apparently healthy individuals and five OSCC samples were cultured and subjected to flow cytometric analysis for CD44 expression. Immunostaining was done using CD44 and EpCAM markers.

Result

Several cells in OSCC samples showed EpCAM and CD44 positivity following immunostaining. However, flow cytometry performed with CD44 alone was not specific for OSCC samples. Hence, proving that CD44 and EpCAM when used in conjunction can help to characterize CTCs.

Conclusion

The findings of our study suggest that the demonstration of CTCs is feasible and helps in understanding of disease progression and metastatic risk. Sensitive detection of CTCs from blood samples can serve as an implicit tool in early cancer diagnosis and prognosis through liquid biopsy which in itself is minimally invasive and time-saving.

p53 and PTEN expression evaluation with molecular evident recent criteria in laryngeal carcinoma

The prognosis of laryngeal cancer is affected by clinicopathological factors. Because of that, an effective prognostic marker is very valuable in managing the clinical process. The p53 evaluation method, used in the literature recently, was used for the first time in laryngeal cancer. We evaluated PTEN with 2 methods with the highest significance in the literature on laryngeal cancer. All demographic and histopathological data from 140 laryngeal cancers were compared with p53 and PTEN expressions and survival. p53 staining patterns were classified as wild and mutant. PTEN expression was evaluated according to the staining intensity named PTEN1 and according to the proportion of stained cells named PTEN2. In the series, 93.6% were males, and the mean survival was 38 months. 69.3% of cases were p53 mutants. PTEN loss was found to be 85.7% and 57.9%, respectively. Tumor size and thyroid cartilage invasion for PTEN1 and age for p53 were identified as independent predictive factors (P < .01). Advanced age, total laryngectomy, and extranodal spread were independent poor prognostic factors for overall survival and the presence of subglottic involvement, perineural invasion, and extranodal spread were for disease-free survival (P < .01). This is the first study in which the new p53 classification was used in laryngeal cancer, and will contribute significantly to the literature with differences from the previous evaluation patterns. Evaluation of PTEN based on staining intensity is more appropriate compared to the percentage of stained cells.

Disparities in Survival Outcomes among Racial/Ethnic Minorities with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer in the United States

Background: Racial/ethnic (R/E) minorities with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) have worse survival outcomes compared to White patients. While disparities in patient outcomes for R/E minorities have been well documented, the specific drivers of the inferior outcomes remain poorly understood. Patients and Methods: This was a population-based retrospective cohort study that analyzed HNSCC patients using the National Cancer Database (NCDB) from 2000–2016. Patient outcomes were stratified by R/E groups including White, Black, Hispanic, Native American/Other, and Asian. The main outcome in this study was overall survival (OS). Univariate time-to-event survival analyses were performed using the Kaplan–Meier product limit estimates and the log-rank test to evaluate the differences between strata. Results: There were 304,138 patients with HNSCC identified in this study, of which 262,762 (86.3%) were White, 32,528 (10.6%) were Black, 6191 were Asian (2.0%), and 2657 were Native American/Other (0.9%). Black R/E minorities were more likely to be uninsured (9% vs. 5%, p < 0.0001), have Medicaid insurance (22% vs. 8%, p < 0.0001), be in a lower income quartile (<30,000, 42% vs. 13%, p < 0.0001), have metastatic disease (5% vs. 2%, p < 0.001), and have a total treatment time 6 days longer than White patients (median 107 vs. 101 days, p < 0.001). The 5-year OS for White, Black, Native American/Other, and Asian patients was 50.8%, 38.6%, 51.1%, and 55.8%, respectively. Among the oropharynx HNSCC patients, the 5-year OS rates in p16+ White, Black, and Asian patients were 65.7%, 39.4%%, and 55%, respectively. After a multivariate analysis, Black race was still associated with an inferior OS (HR:1.09, 95% CI: 1.03–1.15, p = 0.002). Conclusions: This large cohort study of HNSCC patients demonstrates that Black race is independently associated with worse OS, in part due to socioeconomic, clinical, and treatment-related factors.

Cigarette smoking cessation, duration of smoking abstinence, and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma prognosis

BACKGROUND

Tobacco use is a major risk factor for developing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, the prognostic associations with smoking cessation are limited. The authors assessed whether smoking cessation and increased duration of abstinence were associated with improved overall (OS) and HNSCC-specific survival.

METHODS

Clinicodemographic and smoking data from patients with HNSCC at Princess Margaret Cancer Center (2006-2019) were prospectively collected. Multivariable Cox and Fine and Gray competing-risk models were used to assess the impact of smoking cessation and duration of abstinence on overall mortality and HNSCC-specific/noncancer mortality, respectively.

RESULTS

Among 2482 patients who had HNSCC, former smokers (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.71; 95% CI, 0.58-0.87; p = .001; N = 841) had a reduced risk of overall mortality compared with current smokers (N = 931). Compared with current smokers, former smokers who quit >10 years before diagnosis (long-term abstinence; n = 615) had the most improved OS (aHR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.56-0.93; p = .001). The 5-year actuarial rates of HNSCC-specific and noncancer deaths were 16.8% and 9.4%, respectively. Former smokers (aHR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.54-0.95; p = .019) had reduced HNSCC-specific mortality compared with current smokers, but there was no difference in noncancer mortality. Abstinence for >10 years was associated with decreased HNSCC-specific death compared with current smoking (aHR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.46-0.91; p = .012). Smoking cessation with a longer duration of quitting was significantly associated with reduced overall and HNSCC-specific mortality in patients who received primary radiation.

CONCLUSIONS

Smoking cessation before the time of diagnosis reduced overall mortality and cancer-specific mortality among patients with HNSCC, but no difference was observed in noncancer mortality. Long-term abstinence (>10 pack-years) had a significant OS and HNSCC-specific survival benefit.

Automated detection of glottic laryngeal carcinoma in laryngoscopic images from a multicentre database using a convolutional neural network

OBJECTIVE

Little is known about the efficacy of using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify laryngeal carcinoma from images of vocal lesions taken in different hospitals with multiple laryngoscope systems. This multicentre study aimed to establish an AI system and provide a reliable auxiliary tool to screen for laryngeal carcinoma.

STUDY DESIGN

Multicentre case-control study.

SETTING

Six tertiary care centres.

PARTICIPANTS

Laryngoscopy images were collected from 2179 patients with vocal fold lesions.

OUTCOME MEASURES

An automatic detection system of laryngeal carcinoma was established and used to distinguish malignant and benign vocal lesions in 2179 laryngoscopy images acquired from 6 hospitals with 5 types of laryngoscopy systems. Pathological examination was the gold standard for identifying malignant and benign vocal lesions.

RESULTS

Out of 89 cases in the malignant group, the classifier was able to correctly identify laryngeal carcinoma in 66 patients (74.16%, sensitivity). Out of 640 cases in the benign group, the classifier was able to accurately assess the laryngeal lesion in 503 cases (78.59%, specificity). Furthermore, the region-based convolutional neural network (R-CNN) classifier achieved an overall accuracy of 78.05%, with a 95.63% negative predictive value and a 32.51% positive predictive value for the testing data set.

CONCLUSION

This automatic diagnostic system has the potential to assist clinical laryngeal carcinoma diagnosis which may improve and standardise the diagnostic capacity of laryngologists using different laryngoscopes.

Disparities in head and neck cancer incidence and trends by race/ethnicity and sex

BACKGROUND

The epidemiology of head and neck cancer (HNC) sites differ substantially. This study compares HNC incidence trends by site and demographic subgroups.

METHODS

We used the U.S. Cancer Statistics Public Use Database to calculate HNC incidence rates per 100 000. We assessed trends with annual percent change (APC) longitudinally from 2001 to 2017.

RESULTS

The oropharyngeal cancer incidence APC decreased from 4.38% (95% CI: 3.6, 5.1) to 2.93% (2.5, 3.3) in 2008 among White males. Oral cavity cancer incidence rose in Other race males (APC 2.5% [1.6, 3.36]) and White females (APC: 0.96% [0.7, 1.2]). Although decreasing (APC: -1.15% [-1.48, -0.83]), laryngeal cancer incidence remained disproportionately high among Black males.

CONCLUSIONS

Notable incidence trends occurred in non-White groups at non-oropharyngeal sites. With parity of smoking rates by race, differing sexual behaviors, and shifting demographics by race and sex, future studies of HNC trends should consider stratifying analyses to understand health disparities.

Deep learning radiomics of dual-modality ultrasound images for hierarchical diagnosis of unexplained cervical lymphadenopathy

BACKGROUND

Accurate diagnosis of unexplained cervical lymphadenopathy (CLA) using medical images heavily relies on the experience of radiologists, which is even worse for CLA patients in underdeveloped countries and regions, because of lack of expertise and reliable medical history. This study aimed to develop a deep learning (DL) radiomics model based on B-mode and color Doppler ultrasound images for assisting radiologists to improve their diagnoses of the etiology of unexplained CLA.

METHODS

Patients with unexplained CLA who received ultrasound examinations from three hospitals located in underdeveloped areas of China were retrospectively enrolled. They were all pathologically confirmed with reactive hyperplasia, tuberculous lymphadenitis, lymphoma, or metastatic carcinoma. By mimicking the diagnosis logic of radiologists, three DL sub-models were developed to achieve the primary diagnosis of benign and malignant, the secondary diagnosis of reactive hyperplasia and tuberculous lymphadenitis in benign candidates, and of lymphoma and metastatic carcinoma in malignant candidates, respectively. Then, a CLA hierarchical diagnostic model (CLA-HDM) integrating all sub-models was proposed to classify the specific etiology of each unexplained CLA. The assistant effectiveness of CLA-HDM was assessed by comparing six radiologists between without and with using the DL-based classification and heatmap guidance.

RESULTS

A total of 763 patients with unexplained CLA were enrolled and were split into the training cohort (n=395), internal testing cohort (n=171), and external testing cohorts 1 (n=105) and 2 (n=92). The CLA-HDM for diagnosing four common etiologies of unexplained CLA achieved AUCs of 0.873 (95% CI: 0.838-0.908), 0.837 (95% CI: 0.789-0.889), and 0.840 (95% CI: 0.789-0.898) in the three testing cohorts, respectively, which was systematically more accurate than all the participating radiologists. With its assistance, the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of six radiologists with different levels of experience were generally improved, reducing the false-negative rate of 2.2-10% and the false-positive rate of 0.7-3.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

Multi-cohort testing demonstrated our DL model integrating dual-modality ultrasound images achieved accurate diagnosis of unexplained CLA. With its assistance, the gap between radiologists with different levels of experience was narrowed, which is potentially of great significance for benefiting CLA patients in underdeveloped countries and regions worldwide.

Revisiting the Concept of Non- and Minimally Invasive Interventions in Early Glottic Cancer – Part II: Single Therapy Should be Favored over the Combination of Transoral Laser Microsurgery and Radiotherapy, Regarding the Postinterventional Voice Quality

Introduction  Early glottic cancer (EGC) is associated with a high cure rate. Hence, patients and physicians also focus on the impact of the proposed treatment on the speaking function of the preserved larynx.

Objectives  The present study assessed the impact of single-modality treatment (transoral laser microsurgery [TLM], or radiotherapy) or combination therapy for EGC on postinterventional voicing and explored factors which might explain the related perceptions.

Methods  A total of 108 patients filled in the voice handicap index 10 questionnaire, 1 and 2 years postinterventionally. Non-parametric tests were used for the respective statistical analyses.

Results  Sixty-four patients were treated with TLM, 15 with radiotherapy, and 29 with both modalities. Transoral microsurgery and radiotherapy were associated with postinterventional dysphonia, which attenuated between the first and second postintervention year ( p  = 0.000). No association between sociodemographic parameters and the attenuation of postinterventional dysphonia was identified for either treatment modality. Transoral microsurgery and radiotherapy resulted in comparable postinterventional voicing, in the first ( p  = 0.940) and second ( p  = 0.196) postintervention years. The addition of TLM to radiotherapy resulted in worse voice quality in the second, compared with the first postintervention year ( p  = 0.000), demonstrating a detrimental effect on speech intelligibility in noise ( p  = 0.000).

Conclusion  Single therapy should be favored over the combination of TLM and radiotherapy for EGC in terms of retaining better postinterventional voice quality. Postinterventional dysphonia should be taken into account, during preinterventional counseling, as it may exert leverage on the quality of patients' lives. Patients and physicians should acknowledge the optimal time of voice function return, which seems to be extending up to two years posttreatment.

Emerging Disparities in Prevention and Survival Outcomes for Patients with Head and Neck Cancer and Recommendations for Health Equity

Purpose of Review

The aim of this review is to describe less known and emerging disparities found in the prevention and survival outcomes for patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) that are likely to play an increasingly important role in HNC outcomes and health inequities.

Recent Findings

The following factors contribute to HNC incidence and outcomes: (1) the effect of rurality on prevention and treatment of HNC, (2) dietary behavior and nutritional factors influencing the development of and survival from HNC, and (3) barriers and benefits of telehealth for patients with HNC.

Summary

Rurality, nutrition and diet, and telehealth usage and access are significant contributors to the existing health disparities associated with HNC. Population and culturally specific interventions are urgently needed as well as more research to further define the issues and develop appropriate population and individual level solutions.

Dental Caries Postradiotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer

BACKGROUND

Treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC) such as radiotherapy (RT) can lead to numerous acute and chronic head and neck sequelae, including dental caries. The goal of the present study was to measure 2-y changes in dental caries after radiotherapy in patients with HNC and test risk factors for caries increment.

METHODS

Cancer and dental disease characteristics, demographics, and oral health practices were documented before and 6, 12, 18, and 24 mo after the start of RT for 572 adult patients with HNC. Patients were eligible if they were age 18 y or older, diagnosed with HNC, and planned to receive RT for treatment of HNC. Caries prevalence was measured as decayed, missing, and filled surfaces (DMFS). The association between change in DMFS and risk factors was evaluated using linear mixed models.

RESULTS

On average, DMFS increased from baseline to each follow-up visit: 6 mo, +1.11; 12 mo, +2.47; 18 mo, +3.43; and 24 mo, +4.29 (P < 0.0001). The increase in DMFS during follow-up was significantly smaller for the following patient characteristics: compliant with daily fluoride use (P = 0.0004) and daily oral hygiene (brushing twice daily and flossing daily; P = 0.015), dental insurance (P = 0.004), and greater than high school education (P = 0.001). DMFS change was not significantly associated with average or maximum RT dose to the parotids (P > 0.6) or salivary flow (P > 0.1). In the subset of patients who had salivary hypofunction at baseline (n = 164), lower salivary flow at follow-up visits was associated with increased DMFS.

CONCLUSION

Increased caries is a complication soon after RT in HNC. Fluoride, oral hygiene, dental insurance, and education level had the strongest association with caries increment after radiotherapy to the head and neck region. Thus, intensive oral hygiene measures, including fluoride and greater accessibility of dental care, may contribute to reducing the caries burden after RT in HNC.

KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER STATEMENT

The results of this study can be used by clinicians when deciding how to minimize oral complications related to cancer therapy for patients with head and neck cancer. Identification of modifiable factors (e.g., oral hygiene and prescription fluoride compliance) associated with increased caries risk can minimize radiation caries burden.

Clinicians' Views of Patient-initiated Follow-up in Head and Neck Cancer: a Qualitative Study to Inform the PETNECK2 Trial

AIMS

Current follow-up for head and neck cancer (HNC) is ineffective, expensive and fails to address patients' needs. The PETNECK2 trial will compare a new model of patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU) with routine scheduled follow-up. This article reports UK clinicians' views about HNC follow-up and PIFU, to inform the trial design.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Online focus groups with surgeons (ear, nose and throat/maxillofacial), oncologists, clinical nurse specialists and allied health professionals. Clinicians were recruited from professional bodies, mailing lists and personal contacts. Focus groups explored views on current follow-up and acceptability of the proposed PIFU intervention and randomised controlled trial design (presented by the study co-chief investigator), preferences, margins of equipoise, potential organisational barriers and thoughts about the content and format of PIFU. Data were interpreted using inductive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Eight focus groups with 34 clinicians were conducted. Clinicians highlighted already known limitations with HNC follow-up - lack of flexibility to address the wide-ranging needs of HNC patients, expense and lack of evidence - and agreed that follow-up needs to change. They were enthusiastic about the PETNECK2 trial to develop and evaluate PIFU but had concerns that PIFU may not suit disengaged patients and may aggravate patient anxiety/fear of recurrence and delay detection of recurrence. Anticipated issues with implementation included ensuring a reliable route back to clinic and workload burden on nurses and allied health professionals.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians supported the evaluation of PIFU but voiced concerns about barriers to help-seeking. An emphasis on patient engagement, psychosocial issues, symptom reporting and reliable, quick routes back to clinic will be important. Certain patient groups may be less suited to PIFU, which will be evaluated in the trial. Early, meaningful, ongoing engagement with clinical teams and managers around the trial rationale and recruitment process will be important to discourage selective recruitment and address risk-averse behaviour and potential workload burden.

An exploration of financial toxicity among low-income patients with cancer in Central Texas: A mixed methods analysis

OBJECTIVE

Financial toxicity is of increasing concern in the United States. The Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST) is a validated measure; however, it has not been widely utilized among low-income patients and may not fully capture financial toxicity in this population. Furthermore, the relationships between financial toxicity, quality of life (QOL), and patient well-being are poorly understood. We describe the experience of financial toxicity among low-income adults receiving cancer care. We hypothesized that higher financial toxicity would be associated with less income and lower quality of life. Qualitative interviews focused on the financial impact of cancer treatment.

METHOD

This study was conducted at a cancer clinic in Central Texas. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected in Fall and Spring 2018, respectively. The quantitative sample (N = 115) was dichotomized by annual income (<$15,000 vs. >$15,000). Outcomes included financial toxicity (COST), quality of life (FACT-G), and patient well-being (PROMIS measures: Anxiety, Depression, Fatigue, Pain Interference, and Physical Function). Associations between quality of life, patient well-being, and financial toxicity were evaluated using linear regression. Sequential qualitative interviews were conducted with a subsample of 12 participants.

RESULTS

Patients with <$15k had significantly lower levels of QOL and patient well-being such as depression and anxiety compared to patients with >$15k across multiple measures. A multivariate linear regression found QOL (Β = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.05, 0.29, p = 0.008) and insurance status (Β = -3.79, 95% CI = -7.42, -0.16, p = 0.04), but not income, were significantly associated with financial toxicity. Three qualitative themes regarding patient's access to cancer care were identified: obtaining healthcare coverage, maintaining financial stability, and receiving social support.

SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS

Low-income patients with cancer face unique access barriers and are at risk for forgoing treatment or increased symptom burdens. Comprehensive assessment and financial navigation may improve access to care, symptom management, and reduce strain on social support systems.

A Systematic Review of Head and Neck Cancer Health Disparities: A Call for Innovative Research

OBJECTIVE

(1) Describe the existing head and neck cancer health disparities literature. (2) Contextualize these studies by using the NIMHD research framework (National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities). (3) Explore innovative ideas for further study and intervention.

DATA SOURCES

Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.

REVIEW METHODS

Databases were systematically searched from inception to April 20, 2020. The PRISMA checklist was followed (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses). Two authors reviewed all articles for inclusion. Extracted data included health disparity population and outcomes, study details, and main findings and recommendations. Articles were also classified per the NIMHD research framework.

RESULTS

There were 148 articles included for final review. The majority (n = 104) focused on health disparities related to at least race/ethnicity. Greater than two-thirds of studies (n = 105) identified health disparities specific to health behaviors or clinical outcomes. Interaction between the individual domain of influence and the health system level of influence was most discussed (n = 99, 66.9%). Less than half of studies (n = 61) offered specific recommendations or interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

There has been extensive study of health disparities for head and neck cancer, largely focusing on individual patient factors or health care access and quality. This review identifies gaps in this research, with large numbers of retrospective database studies and little discussion of potential contributors and explanations for these disparities. We recommend shifting research on disparities upstream toward a focus on community and societal factors, rather than individual, and an evaluation of interventions to promote health equity.

Factors associated with loss to follow-up after radiation therapy for head and neck cancer

OBJECTIVES

Head and neck cancer (HNC) patients are at high risk for late occurring radiation-related morbidity and recurrence, necessitating close long-term medical surveillance. This study identified factors associated with becoming lost to follow-up (LTFU) at a comprehensive cancer center.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients were drawn from survivors who received radiation for HNC at a single institution between 2001 and 2018. LTFU was defined as living patients without a clinical encounter within 2 years of the data query.

RESULTS

In total, 537 patients met the inclusion criteria and 57 (10.6%) were identified as LTFU. Individual comparisons identified time since completing radiation, non-White race and being unmarried as associated with LTFU. Multiple regression identified time since treatment and being unmarried as factors associated with LTFU. A decision tree correctly sorted 89.4% using time, distance, and marital status.

CONCLUSION

Time since radiation, distance to clinic, and being unmarried were factors associated with becoming LTFU.

The impact of socioeconomic and geographic factors on access to transoral robotic/endoscopic surgery for early stage oropharyngeal malignancy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the role of social and geographic factors on the likelihood of receiving transoral robotic surgery (TORS) or non-robotic transoral endoscopic surgery treatment in early stage oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried to form a cohort of patients with T1-T2 N0-N1 M0 OPSCC (AJCC v.7) who underwent treatment from 2010 to 2016. Demographics, tumor characteristics, treatment type, social, and geographic factors were all collected. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were then performed.

RESULTS

Among 9267 identified patients, 1774 (19.1%) received transoral robotic surgery (TORS), 1191 (12.9%) received transoral endoscopic surgery, and 6302 (68%) received radiation therapy. We found that lower cancer stage, lower comorbidity burden and HPV- positive status predicted a statistically significant increased likelihood of receiving surgery. Patients who reside in suburban or small urban areas (>1 million population), were low-to- middle income, or rely on Medicaid were less likely to receive surgery. Patients that reside in Medicaid-expansion states were more likely to receive TORS (p > .0001). Patients that reside in states that expanded Medicaid January 2014 and after were more likely to receive non-robotic transoral endoscopic surgery (p > .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Poorer baseline health, lower socioeconomic status and residence in small urban areas may act as barriers to accessing minimally invasive transoral surgery while residence in a Medicaid-expansion state may improve access. Barriers to accessing robotic surgery may be greater than accessing non-robotic surgery.

The Impact of Smoking and Multiple Health Behaviors on All-Cause Mortality

Four common health risk behaviors have the greatest impact on all-cause mortality risk, but studies are needed with larger samples and the appropriate age range for cigarette smokers. We examined the impact of smoking in the context of multiple health behaviors on all-cause mortality using a nationally representative sample of adults aged 30 and older in the United States. National Health Interview Survey data from 1997 to 2005 were linked to the National Death Index with a follow-up to December 2015. The primary dependent variable was all-cause mortality, and the primary predictors were smoking, heavy drinking, physical inactivity, and unhealthy weight (underweight or obesity). The sample contained 189,087 individuals (≥ age 30; population estimate = 140.7 million). Our primary statistical analysis tool involved fitting Cox proportional hazards models. Our findings demonstrated that smoking led to the highest mortality risk among the four risk behaviors examined, but more than half of smokers engaged in at least one additional health risk behavior. Smokers who engaged in multiple health behaviors experienced higher increased mortality risks: smoking combined with one other health risk behavior increased mortality risk by 32% and by 82% when combined with two behaviors. Engaging in all four risk behaviors more than doubled the mortality risk of smokers. Smoking cessation interventions that address multiple risk behaviors-physical inactivity, heavy drinking, and unhealthy weight-will likely prevent premature death better than interventions that address only smoking.

Targets for improving disparate head and neck cancer outcomes in the low-income population

Low-income patients have worse head and neck cancer outcomes than those with high-income. Yet, few targets have been identified to specifically improve outcomes in the low-income population. Here, we conduct a review on the current literature on head and neck cancer outcomes in the low-income population and identify targets for intervention. The degree of disparity is in the range of 20%-90% worse overall survival in the low-income population. Eliminating smoking would have the greatest effect on head and neck cancer mortality rates in the low-income population. Additionally, access to oral cancer exams, assistance with transportation, and continued expansion of telemedicine would facilitate early diagnosis and timely treatment in patients who develop head and neck cancer.

Geographic Barriers Affect Follow-Up Care in Head and Neck Cancer

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Follow-up care in head and neck cancers (HNC) is critical in managing patient health. However, social determinants of health (SDOH) can create difficulties in maintaining follow-up care. The study goal is to explore how SDOH impacts maintenance of HNC follow-up care appointments.

METHODS

A systematic retrospective chart review of 877 HNC patients diagnosed in the past 10 years a safety-net tertiary care hospital with systems to help reduce care disparities. Cohort groups were identified and compared against protocols for follow-up. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance, chi-square tests, Fisher's exact tests, two-sample t-tests, and simple linear regression.

RESULTS

The average length of follow-up time in months and average total number of follow-ups over 5 years were 32.96 (34.60) and 9.24 (7.87), respectively. There was no significant difference in follow-up care between United States (US) versus non-US born and English versus non-English speaking patients. Race/ethnicity, county median household income, insurance status, and county educational attainment were not associated with differences in follow-up. However, living a greater distance from the hospital was associated with lower follow-up length and less frequency in follow-up (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

While income, primary language, country of birth, race/ethnicity, insurance status, and markers of educational attainment do not appear to impact HNC follow-up at our safety-net, tertiary care institution, and distance from hospital remains an important contributor to disparities in care. This study shows that many barriers to care can be addressed in a model that addresses SDOH, but there are barriers that still require additional systems and resources. Laryngoscope, 2021.

Inpatient Sinus Surgery Patient Morbidity and Outcomes: A National Analysis

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To investigate the morbidity and mortality of patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in the inpatient setting.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective database review.

METHODS

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample was queried for all ESS between 2008 and 2014. Using All Patients Refined Diagnosis Related Groups (APR-DRG) codes, cases with APR-DRG codes under Major Diagnostic Category 3 (Diseases and Disorders of the Ear, Nose, Mouth, and Throat) were designated as patients with primary otolaryngology diagnoses undergoing ESS (ORL), and all other codes were designated as patients with non-otolaryngology pathologies as their primary reason for admission but undergoing ESS (non-ORL). A univariate analysis and a logistic regression were used to compare patient demographics, comorbidities, disease severity, and mortality.

RESULTS

There were 8,305 ORL patients and 6,342 non-ORL patients. ORL patients were more likely to be elective admissions (61.3% vs. 48.5%, P < .001), have a deviated nasal septum (17.9% vs. 12.3%, P < .001), nasal polyps (15.8% vs. 5.0%, P < .001), obstructive sleep apnea (10.7% vs. 5.2%, P < .001), and pulmonary disease (15.9% vs. 10.5%, P < .001). Non-ORL patients had a higher likelihood of in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR] 6.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.29-11.78, P < .001), length of stay in the highest quartile (OR 2.43, 95% CI 2.16-2.74, P < .001), and a higher proportion had APR-DRG subclasses indicating extreme severity of illness (19.3% vs. 4.3%, P < .001) or extreme risk of mortality (12.5% vs. 2.0%, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing ESS in the inpatient setting have a higher than expected mortality rate which can be associated with a non-otolaryngology pathology as the primary reason for their admission.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 2021.

Robotic surgery may improve overall survival for T1 and T2 tumors of the hypopharynx: An NCDB cohort study

BACKGROUND

Hypopharyngeal cancer is associated with poor survival. Robotic surgery is emerging as a treatment for hypopharyngeal tumors, but no rigorous data are available to assess its effect on survival.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was used to identify patients with T1 and T2 hypopharyngeal tumors undergoing robotic surgery, laser surgery, and primary radiation with or without chemotherapy from 2010 to 2016. All adult patients with available staging and no distant metastasis were included.

RESULTS

We compared 57 patients undergoing robotic surgery, 236 undergoing laser surgery, and 5,742 undergoing primary radiation. Compared to laser surgery, patients undergoing robotic surgery were significantly more likely to have negative margins, neck dissection, lower incomes, and care at an academic center. Rates of robotic surgery also significantly increased from 2010 to 2015. After multivariate regression, robotic surgery was associated with significantly improved overall survival compared to laser surgery and primary radiation.

CONCLUSION

Robotic surgery improves overall survival for T1 and T2 hypopharyngeal tumors compared to laser surgery and primary radiation in this NCDB cohort. This effect may be mediated by decreased positive margin rates relative to laser surgery. Rates of hypopharyngeal robotic surgery are expected to increase with wider adoption of robotic platforms and may improve overall survival rates for hypopharyngeal cancer.

Socioeconomic Status and Survival in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Population-Based Study

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To evaluate survival for nasopharyngeal carcinoma in relation to socioeconomic status.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Census Tract-level Socioeconomic Status Database (2000-2016).

METHODS

Patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma diagnosed between 2000 and 2016 were identified. Data were stratified based on socioeconomic status, divided into three groups: group 1 being the poorest and group 3 the wealthiest. Univariate analysis as well as multivariate Cox regression analysis adjusted for individual variables was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 5,527 patients were included in the study, with 33% in group 1, 34% in group 2, and 33% in group 3. There was a significant difference between groups in regard to age at diagnosis, race, histologic subtype, overall stage, tumor stage, nodal stage, and whether or not they received radiation. Patients in group 1, the poorest socioeconomic status, were more likely to be young (P = .003), black (P < .0001), present with higher overall stage (P = .009), tumor stage (P = .01), and nodal stage (P = .02), and less likely to receive radiation (P = .005). In multivariate analysis, there was a significant difference in survival between the groups, with group 1 patients less likely to survive compared to group 3 (hazard ratio = 1.28; 95% CI 1.07-1.57).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients in the poorest socioeconomic status presented with more advanced nasopharyngeal cancer and were less likely to receive radiation when compared with individuals of higher socioeconomic status. The poorest socioeconomic status groups were less likely to survive from their disease when controlling for other variables.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 2021.

Prognostic impact of socioeconomic status compared to overall stage for HPV-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the relative prognostic ability of socioeconomic status (SES) compared to overall stage for HPV-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were obtained from the Carolina Head and Neck Cancer Epidemiology Study (CHANCE). An empirical 4-category SES classification system was created. Cox proportional hazards models, survival gradients, Bayesian information criterion (BIC), and Harrell's C index were used to estimate the prognostic ability of SES compared to stage on overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

The sample consisted of 1229 patients with HPV-negative HNSCC. Patients with low SES had significantly increased risk of mortality at 5 years compared to patients with high SES (HR 3.11, 95% CI 2.07-4.67; p < 0.001), and the magnitude of effect was similar to overall stage (HR 3.01, 95% CI 2.35-3.86; p < 0.001 for stage IV versus I). Compared to overall stage, the SES classification system had a larger total survival gradient (35.8% vs. 29.1%), similar model fit (BIC statistic of 7412 and 7388, respectively), and similar model discriminatory ability (Harrell's C index of 0.61 and 0.64, respectively). The association between low SES and OS persisted after adjusting for age, sex, race, alcohol, smoking, overall stage, tumor site, and treatment in a multivariable model (HR 2.96, 95% CI 1.92-4.56; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

SES may have a similar prognostic ability to overall stage for patients with HPV-negative HNSCC. Future research is warranted to validate these findings and identify evidence-based interventions for addressing barriers to care for patients with HNSCC.

RTOG-0129 risk groups are reproducible in a prospective multicenter heterogeneously treated cohort

BACKGROUND

Recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) from the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG)-0129 has identified a low-risk group of patients with oropharynx cancer (OPC) who might benefit from therapeutic de-intensification. These risk groups have not yet been reproduced in an independent cohort treated heterogeneously. Therefore, the objective of this analysis was to validate the RPA risk groups and examine the prognostic impact of novel factors.

METHODS

Patients with OPC were enrolled in a prospective study at 3 academic medical centers from 2013 to 2018. Medical record abstraction was used to ascertain clinical variables including staging and survival according to the 7th edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) Cancer Staging Manual. Human papillomavirus-positive tumor status was determined by p16 immunohistochemistry and/or HPV RNA in situ hybridization. Kaplan-Meier and log-rank methods were used to compare survival. Cox proportional hazards were used to generate univariate and multivariable hazard ratios (HRs).

RESULTS

Median follow-up time was 3.2 years. The low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups had significant differences in 2-year overall survival (OS, 99.1%; 95% CI, 94.4%-99.9% vs OS, 93.0%; 95% CI, 74.7%-98.2% vs OS, 80.0%; 95% CI, 40.9%-94.6%; P_overall = .0001) and 2-year progression-free survival (PFS, 97.5%; 95% CI, 92.4%-99.2% vs PFS, 89.3%; 95% CI, 70.3%-96.4% vs PFS, 80.0%; 95% CI, 40.9%-94.6%; P_overall < .002). After adjustment for age, sex, and level of educational attainment, OS and PFS were significantly lower for the intermediate- (OS adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 5.0; 95% CI, 1.0-23.0; PFS aHR, 3.4; 95% CI, 1.0-11.5), and high- (OS aHR, 7.3; 95% CI, 1.4-39; PFS aHR, 5.0; 95% CI, 1.2-21.6) risk groups compared with the low-risk group. Lower education was also independently significantly associated with worse OS (aHR, 8.9; 95% CI, 1.8-44.3) and PFS (aHR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.0-9.6).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with OPC, the RTOG-0129 RPA model is associated with OS and PFS in a heterogeneously treated cohort.

Socioeconomic Influences on Short-term Postoperative Outcomes in Patients With Oral Cavity Cancer Undergoing Free Flap Reconstruction

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the associations between median household income (MHI) and area deprivation index (ADI) on postoperative outcomes in oral cavity cancer.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review (2000-2019).

SETTING

Single-institution tertiary medical center.

METHODS

MHI and ADI were matched from home zip codes. Main postoperative outcomes of interest were length of tracheostomy use, length of hospital stay, return to oral intake, discharge disposition, and 60-day readmissions. Linear and logistic regression controlled for age, sex, race, body mass index, tobacco and alcohol use history, primary tumor location, disease staging at presentation, and length of surgery. A secondary outcome was clinical disease staging (I-IV) at time of presentation.

RESULTS

The cohort (N = 681) was 91.3% White and 38.0% female, and 51.7% presented with stage IV disease. The median age at the time of surgery was 62 years (interquartile range [IQR], 53-71). The median MHI was $47,659 (IQR, $39,324-$58,917), and the median ADI was 67 (IQR, 48-79). ADI and MHI were independently associated with time to return of oral intake (β = 0.130, P = .022; β = -0.092, P = .045, respectively). Neither was associated with length of tracheostomy, hospital stay, discharge disposition, or readmissions. MHI quartiles were associated with a lower risk of presenting with more advanced disease (Q3 vs Q1: adjusted odds ratio, 0.56 [95% CI, 0.32-0.97]).

CONCLUSION

MHI is associated with oral cavity cancer staging at the time of presentation. MHI and ADI are independently associated with postoperative return to oral intake following intraoral tumor resection and free flap reconstruction.

Patient reported outcomes affecting quality of life in socioeconomically disadvantaged cancer patients

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to identify correlates of quality of life (QOL) for socioeconomically disadvantaged cancer patients receiving care in the "safety net" health system.

DESIGN

This cross-sectional study used linear regressions to determine the effect of patient reported outcome measures (PRO) on QOL.Sample/Methods: Cancer patients (n = 115) receiving drug therapy completed a series of PROs including: Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy (FACT-G), PROMIS (Anxiety, Depression, Fatigue, Pain Interference, and Physical Function), and the Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity.

FINDINGS

More than 60% of patients reported an annual income below $24,999. Forty-five percent of patients were either uninsured or county-funded. Depression, pain, and financial toxicity were found to be consistently significant correlates of QOL.Implications: Cancer patients with existing financial strain have unique psychosocial stressors. This study provides insight into the relationship between these stressors, and the need for targeted screening and intervention that address such aspects of care.

Recommending encounters according to the sociodemographic characteristics of patient strata can reduce risks from type 2 diabetes

Objectives

Physician encounters with patients with type 2 diabetes act as motivation for self-management and lifestyle adjustments that are indispensable for diabetes treatment. We elucidate the sociodemographic sources of variation in encounter usage and the impact of encounter usage on glucose control, which can be used to recommend encounter usage for different sociodemographic strata of patients to reduce risks from Type 2 diabetes.

Data and methods

We analyzed data from a multi-facility clinic in the Midwestern United States on 2124 patients with type 2 diabetes, from 95 ZIP codes. A zero-inflated Poisson model was used to estimate the effects of various ZIP-code level sociodemographic variables on the encounter usage. A multinomial logistic regression model was built to estimate the effects of physical and telephonic encounters on patients’ glucose level transitions. Results from the two models were combined in marginal effect analyses.

Results and conclusions

Conditional on patients’ clinical status, demographics, and insurance status, significant inequality in patient encounters exists across ZIP codes with varying sociodemographic characteristics. One additional physical encounter in a six-month period marginally increases the probability of transition from a diabetic state to a pre-diabetic state by 4.3% and from pre-diabetic to the non-diabetic state by 3.2%. Combined marginal effect analyses illustrate that a ZIP code in the lower quartile of high school graduate percentage among all ZIP codes has 1 fewer physical encounter per six months marginally compared to a ZIP code at the upper quartile, which gives 5.4% average increase in the probability of transitioning from pre-diabetic to diabetic. Our results suggest that policymakers can target particular patient groups who may have inadequate encounters to engage in diabetes care, based on their immediate environmental sociodemographic characteristics, and design programs to increase their encounters to achieve better care outcomes.

Socioeconomic Factors Affect Presentation Stage and Survival in Sinonasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

Socioeconomic factors affect oncologic outcome in sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SNSCC). However, the relationship between these factors and stage at presentation (SAP)-a critical, early point in the care cycle-is not known. This study sought to determine the role of race/ethnicity, treatment facility type, insurance status/carrier, and other socioeconomic factors in SAP and survival among patients with advanced SNSCC.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

Using the National Cancer Database, 6,155 patients with SNSCC were identified and divided into those with "early" (Stage I or II; 2,212 (35.9%)) versus "advanced" (Stage III or IV; 3,943 (64.1%)) disease. Associations between sociodemographic and socioeconomic factors on SAP and survival were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

Black (odds ratio [OR]: 2.18, CI: 1.74-2.76), Asian and Pacific Islander (API) (OR: 2.37, CI: 1.43-4.14), and Medicaid or uninsured (OR: 2.04, CI: 1.66-2.53) patients were more likely to present with advanced disease. Among patients with advanced disease, API patients demonstrated the highest 10-year survival rate (30.2%), and Black patients had the lowest 2-, 5-, and 10-year survival rates (47.7%, 31.9% and 19.2%, respectively). Older age (HR:1.03, CI:1.03-1.04), Black race (HR:1.39, CI:1.21-1.59), Medicaid or uninsured status (HR:1.48, CI:1.27-1.71), and treatment at a community hospital (HR:1.25, CI:1.14-1.37) were associated with poorer overall survival among patients with advanced disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Factors including race/ethnicity, treatment facility type, insurance status/carrier, and other socioeconomic factors influence SAP and survival in SNSCC. An improved understanding of how these factors relate to outcomes may elucidate opportunities to address gaps in education and access to care in vulnerable populations.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 2021.

Factors Affecting Outcomes in Patients With Stage III & IV Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Oropharynx: The Importance of p16 Status, BMI, and Race

Objective

To identify racial disparities in survival outcomes among Stage III & IV patients with squamous cell carcinomas (SCCa) of the oropharynx treated with definitive radiation therapy (RT), with concurrent chemotherapy.

Method

This is a retrospective analysis of patients with stage III & IV SCCa of oropharynx treated with definitive RT at the State Academic Medical Center. All patients were treated to 70 Gy utilizing intensity-modulated radiation treatment (IMRT), and received concurrent chemotherapy with weekly cisplatin or cetuximab. Chi-square test was used to test the goodness of fit, overall survival (OS), and locoregional control (LRC) comparing races were generated by using Log-rank test & Kaplan-Meier method. The covariables associated with the OS and LRC were determined by the Cox regression model. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The SPSS 24.0 software (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY) was used.

Results

In the total 73 eligible patients, 54.8% were black, and 45.2% white patients. Stage distribution (per American Joint Committee on Cancer-AJCC 8^th Ed) between black patients vs. white patients, Stage III (45.5% vs. 54.5%) and for Stage IV (56.5% vs. 43.5%); p=0.499. Median follow-up for the entire group was 41 months (range: 4-144 months). In the univariate analysis, variables p16 status, body mass index (BMI), alcohol history and tumor subsite were found to be significant. In the multivariate analysis, only BMI has shown to be significant.

Three-year LRC for black patients was 37.8% vs.66.8% in white patients (p=0.354) and three-year OS for black patients was 51.8% vs. 80.9% for white patients (p=0.063), respectively. Five-year OS for p16 positive patients was 69.7% vs. 43% for p16 negative patients (p=0.034). Five-year OS for Stage IV black patients was 34% vs. 69.5% for Stage IV white patients (p=0.014).

Conclusion

Among all the co-variables examined, only BMI has shown affecting the OS outcomes; gender and BMI shown to be affecting the LRC. Racial factor appears to be significant in Stage IV patients.

Associations of insurance, urbanity, and comorbidity with types of palliative care received by patients with head and neck cancer

BACKGROUND

Our study examined some of the social and medical factors associated with receiving pain palliation alone over more aggressive cytoreductive palliative measures, such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation among patients with head and neck cancer.

METHODS

This retrospective study used the National Cancer Database 2016 for data analysis. Patient and tumor characteristics were examined using bivariate analysis and logistic regression to identify their association with receiving pain palliation alone versus cytoreductive palliation treatment.

RESULTS

Using multivariate logistic regression analysis, insurance status (odds ratio [OR]: 0.27, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.15-0.50, p < 0.001), urbanity (OR: 1.73, 95%CI: 1.21-2.46, p = 0.002), and Charlson-Deyo scores greater than 3 (OR: 2.49, 95%CI: 1.38-4.47, p = 0.002) were significantly associated with receipt of pain palliation alone.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians should be aware of non-health-related factors, such as insurance status, that may influence patients' receipt of treatments in head and neck cancer.

Socioeconomic disparities in head and neck cancer survival in Germany: a causal mediation analysis using population-based cancer registry data

PURPOSE

Despite recent improvements in cancer treatment in Germany, a marked difference in cancer survival based on socioeconomic factors persists. We aim to quantify the effect of socioeconomic inequality on head and neck cancer (HNC) survival.

METHODS

Information on 20,821 HNC patients diagnosed in 2009-2013 was routinely collected by German population-based cancer registries. Socioeconomic inequality was defined by the German Index of Socioeconomic Deprivation. The Cox proportional regression and relative survival analysis measured the survival disparity according to level of socioeconomic deprivation with respective confidence intervals (CI). A causal mediation analysis was conducted to quantify the effect of socioeconomic deprivation mediated through medical care, stage at diagnosis, and treatment on HNC survival.

RESULTS

The most socioeconomically deprived patients were found to have the highest hazard of dying when compared to the most affluent (Hazard Ratio: 1.25, 95% CI 1.17-1.34). The most deprived patients also had the worst 5-year age-adjusted relative survival (50.8%, 95% CI 48.5-53.0). Our mediation analysis showed that most of the effect of deprivation on survival was mediated through differential stage at diagnosis during the first 6 months after HNC diagnosis. As follow-up time increased, medical care, stage at diagnosis, and treatment played no role in mediating the effect of deprivation on survival.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms the survival disparity between affluent and deprived HNC patients in Germany. Considering data limitations, our results suggest that, within six months after HNC diagnosis, the elimination of differences in stage at diagnosis could reduce survival inequalities.

Mono-institutional retrospective cohort analysis of the insurance status dependent access to ENT-professionals and survival in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

To access the influence of insurance status on time of diagnosis, quality of treatment and survival in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

METHODS

This mono-institutional retrospective cohort analysis included all HNSCC patients (n = 1,054) treated between 2001 and 2011, and subdivided the cohort according to the insurance status. Differences between the groups were analyzed using the Chi square and the unpaired student's t-test. Survival rates were calculated by Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression for forward selection.

RESULTS

Nine hundred twenty-five patients showed general, 129 private insurance. The 2 groups were equal regarding age, gender, tumor localization, therapy, and N/M/G/R-status. The T-status differed significantly between the groups showing more advanced tumors in patients with general insurance (p = 0.002). While recurrence-free survival was comparable in both groups, overall survival was significantly better in private patients (p = 0.009). The time frame between first symptom and diagnosis was equal in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The time frame between subjective percipience of first symptom and final therapy did not differ between the groups. In our cohort, access to otorhinolaryngological specialists is favorable in both, patients with general and private insurance. Recurrence-free survival was comparable in both groups, indicating successful HNSCC treatment both groups. However, overall survival was significantly better in patients with private insurance suggesting other socioeconomic factors influencing survival.

Epidemiologic factors in patients with advanced head and neck cancer treated with radiation therapy

BACKGROUND

Approximately 50% of patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) initially were seen with advanced disease. We aimed to evaluate the association of epidemiologic factors with advanced HNC at diagnosis.

METHODS

The OraRad multicenter prospective cohort study enrolled HNC patients receiving curative-intent radiation therapy. Factors assessed for association with advanced HNC presentation at diagnosis included demographics, social and medical history, cancer characteristics, human papilloma virus (HPV) status, and dental disease measures.

RESULTS

We enrolled 572 participants; 77% male and mean (SD) age of 61.7 (11.2) years. Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (88% HPV-related) were seen with smaller tumors, but more frequent nodal involvement. Private medical insurance and no Medicaid were associated with smaller tumors. A higher dental disease burden was associated with larger tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Insurance status, cancer type/location, and dental disease are associated with advanced HNC and may represent potentially modifiable factors or factors to be considered in the screening process of new lesions.

Oligometastatic Disease Management: Finding the Sweet Spot

Hematogenous dissemination represents a common manifestation of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, and the recommended therapeutic options usually consist of systemically administered drugs with palliative intent. However, mounting evidence suggests that patients with few and slowly progressive distant lesions of small size may benefit from various local ablation techniques, which have already been established as standard-of-care modalities for example in colorectal and renal cell carcinomas and in sarcomas. In principle, serving as radical approaches to eradicate cancer, these interventions can be curative. Their impact on local control and overall survival has been shown in numerous retrospective and prospective studies. The term oligometastatic refers to the number of distant lesions which should generally not surpass five in total, ideally in one organ. Currently, surgical resection remains the method of choice supported by the majority of published data. More recently, stereotactic (ablative) body radiotherapy (SABR/SBRT) has emerged as a viable alternative. In cases technically amenable to such local interventions, several other clinical variables need to be taken into account also, including patient-related factors (general health status, patient preferences, socioeconomic background) and disease-related factors (primary tumor site, growth kinetics, synchronous or metachronous metastases). In head and neck cancer, patients presenting with late development of slowly progressive oligometastatic lesions in the lungs secondary to human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharyngeal cancer are the ideal candidates for metastasectomy or other local therapies. However, literature data are still limited to say whether there are other subgroups benefiting from this approach. One of the plausible explanations is that radiological follow-up after primary curative therapy is usually not recommended because its impact on survival has not been unequivocal, which is also due to the rarity of oligometastatic manifestations in this disease. At the same time, aggressive treatment of synchronous metastases early in the disease course should be weighed against the risk of futile interventions in a disease with already multimetastatic microscopic dissemination. Therefore, attentive treatment sequencing, meticulous appraisal of cancer extension, refinement of post-treatment surveillance, and understanding of tumor biology and kinetics are crucial in the management of oligometastases.

Geographic and Socioeconomic Factors on Survival in Esthesioneuroblastoma

OBJECTIVES

Esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is a rare sinonasal malignancy with little known regarding how regional and socioeconomic differences in the United States alter disease survival. The aim of this study is to explore the geographic difference in clinical features, socioeconomic factors, and survival outcomes of ENB patients.

METHODS

ENB cases were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registry from 1975-2016. Patient data were stratified based on geographical location and comparative analyses of socioeconomic features, disease characteristics, and survival patterns were performed. Kaplan-Meier regression analyses were used to estimate disease-specific survival (DSS).

RESULTS

A total of 987 patients were identified: 56.4% West, 14.0% South, 12.7% Midwest, and 16.6% East. The West had the highest proportion of patients with Medicaid coverage (P < .001), stage A malignancy (P < .001), and treated with surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy (P < .001). The South had the highest proportion of patients who were Black (P < .001), uninsured (P < .001), and resided in rural areas (P < .001). Five-year DSS patterns were 81.0% (West), 79.8% (East), 67.4% (Midwest), and 72.7% (South) [P = .018]. Ten-year DSS outcomes were 74.0% (West), 73.7% (East), 60.9% (Midwest), and 63.6% (South) [P = .017].

CONCLUSION

In ENB patients, survival disparity exists in the United States based on geographical region. Patients from the West and East exhibit higher survival than those from the South and Midwest.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E2162-E2168, 2021.

Time-varying survival effects for squamous cell carcinomas at oropharyngeal and nonoropharyngeal head and neck sites in the United States, 1973-2015

BACKGROUND

Anatomical site is strongly associated with head and neck cancer etiology, and etiology and patient sociodemographic characteristics are prognostic factors for survival. It is not known whether the effects of these predictors persist over the postdiagnosis period or are strongest proximal to the time of diagnosis.

METHODS

Using survival times and causes of death for 180,434 patients with head and neck cancer in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry (1973-2015), the empirical cumulative incidences of cancer-specific death and other-cause death were calculated with a competing risks framework, and the time-dependent effects (hazard ratios) of anatomical tumor site (oropharynx, oral cavity, or hypopharynx/larynx), age, sex, race, and year of diagnosis on cancer-specific death and other-cause death, stratified by tumor stage, were estimated.

RESULTS

All effects were significantly time-varying (P < .001). Patients with nonoropharyngeal cancer had a higher hazard of cancer-specific death but a similar cumulative fraction of deaths because of a higher rate of death from other causes. Cancer-specific survival has not changed for patients with nonoropharyngeal cancer over the past decades but has improved since 2000 for patients with oropharyngeal cancer. The effects of age and sex on cancer survival were strongest proximal to the diagnosis, whereas the effect of race persisted over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Recent improvements in survival for patients with oropharyngeal cancer may be due more to an increasing fraction of cancers attributable to human papillomavirus than to increasing treatment effectiveness. The prognostic strength of anatomical site and other predictors changes over the postdiagnosis period.

LAY SUMMARY

It is generally assumed that the effects of tumor and personal characteristics on the survival of patients with head and neck cancer are fixed over time, but this study shows that many factors are most important only in the first few years after diagnosis. Also, recent improvements in the survival of patients with head and neck cancer appear to benefit only patients with cancers of the oropharynx. The improvements may be due more to an increasing fraction of cancers caused by human papillomavirus (which generally have better outcomes) than to advances in head and neck cancer treatment overall.

Gender and race interact to influence survival disparities in head and neck cancer

Gender and race disparities in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HSNCC) survival are independently well documented, but no prior studies have examined the joint effect of these factors on HSNCC outcomes. We aim to comprehensively estimate the effect of gender and race on overall survival in HNSCC. We constructed a retrospective cohort from the National Cancer Database for primary HNSCC of the larynx, hypopharynx, oral cavity, and oropharynx from 2010 to 2015. We used Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards regressions to calculate hazard ratios adjusting for treatment type, age, insurance, staging classifications, and comorbidities. Oral cavity cancer was significantly more common among Hispanic and White females compared to other sites. Female non-oropharyngeal HNSCC cases had better five-year overall survival than males (56.3% versus 54.4%, respectively), though Black females (52.8%) had poorer survival than both White (56.2%) and Hispanic (57.9%) males. There were significant differences in oropharyngeal cancer by HPV status. Notably, Black females with HPV-positive oropharyngeal OPSCC had far worse survival than any other race and gender group. These results persisted even when adjusting for potential mediating factors. Clearly gender is a significant prognosticator for HNSCC and has meaningful interactions with race. The distinct site distributions across gender and race reveal important insights into HNSCC among females. Taking into account these gender disparities while considering race is essential to providing appropriate care to head and neck patients and accurately counselling these individuals on prognosis and outcomes.