Geriatric assessment and quality of life for 2 years in older patients with head and neck cancer.

Due to the location and toxicity of treatments, head and neck cancer (HNC) has a major impact on quality of life (QoL). Objective: to assess the effects of geriatric-assessment (GA)-driven interventions on QoL over 2 years in older adults with HNC.EGeSOR was a randomized study of HNC patients aged ≥65, receiving a pretreatment GA, a geriatric intervention and follow-up (intervention) or standard of care (control). The primary endpoint was QoL score using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer's (EORTC QLQ-C30) and HNC (QLQ-HN35) QoL questionnaires over 24 months.In total, 475 patients were included (median age: 75.3; women: 31%; oral cancer: 44%). QoL scores improved over 24 months with various trajectories, without significant differences between the groups. A total of 74% of patients (interventional group) did not receive the complete intervention. Cancer characteristics, functional status, and risk of frailty were associated with change in the Global Health Status QoL score.There is a need to develop an alternative model of implementation such as patient-centered health-care pathways. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT02025062.

Association of Deficits Identified by Geriatric Assessment With Deterioration of Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients Treated for Head and Neck Cancer.

Importance: Accumulation of geriatric deficits, leading to an increased frailty state, makes patients susceptible for decline in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) after treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC). Objective: To assess the association of single and accumulated geriatric deficits with HRQOL decline in patients after treatment for HNC. Design, Setting, and Participants: Between October 2014 and May 2016, patients at a tertiary referral center were included in the Oncological Life Study (OncoLifeS), a prospective data biobank, and followed up for 2 years. A consecutive series of 369 patients with HNC underwent geriatric assessment at baseline; a cohort of 283 patients remained eligible for analysis, and after 2 years, 189 patients remained in the study. Analysis was performed between March and November 2020. Interventions or Exposures: Geriatric assessment included scoring of the Adult Comorbidity Evaluation 27, polypharmacy, Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool, Activities of Daily Living, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL), Timed Up & Go, Mini-Mental State Examination, 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale, marital status, and living situation. Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome measure was the Global Health Status/Quality of Life (GHS/QOL) scale of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30. Differences between patients were evaluated using linear mixed models at 3 months after treatment (main effects, ß [95% CI]) and declining course per year during follow-up (interaction × time, ß [95% CI]), adjusted for baseline GHS/QOL scores, and age, sex, stage, and treatment modality. Results: Among the 283 patients eligible for analysis, the mean (SD) age was 68.3 (10.9) years, and 193 (68.2%) were male. Severe comorbidity (ß = -7.00 [-12.43 to 1.56]), risk of malnutrition (ß = -6.18 [-11.55 to -0.81]), and IADL restrictions (ß = -10.48 [-16.39 to -4.57]) were associated with increased GHS/QOL decline at 3 months after treatment. Severe comorbidity (ß = -4.90 [-9.70 to -0.10]), IADL restrictions (ß = -5.36 [-10.50 to -0.22]), restricted mobility (ß = -6.78 [-12.81 to -0.75]), signs of depression (ß = -7.08 [-13.10 to -1.06]), and living with assistance or in a nursing home (ß = -8.74 [-15.75 to -1.73]) were associated with further GHS/QOL decline during follow-up. Accumulation of domains with geriatric deficits was a major significant factor for GHS/QOL decline at 3 months after treatment (per deficient domain ß = -3.17 [-5.04 to -1.30]) and deterioration during follow-up (per domain per year ß = -2.74 [-4.28 to -1.20]). Conclusions and Relevance: In this prospective cohort study, geriatric deficits were significantly associated with HRQOL decline after treatment for HNC. Therefore, geriatric assessment may aid decision-making, indicate interventions, and reduce loss of HRQOL. Trial Registration: trialregister.nl Identifier: NL7839.

Assessment of the perceived stress and burden of family caregivers of the head-and-neck cancer patients at a tertiary care cancer center: A cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Cancer is a major life-threatening disease and has an impact on both patients and their family members. Caring for cancer patients may lead to several levels of stress which may affect their own health as well as their quality of life. AIM: To assess the perceived stress and burden of family caregivers of head and neck cancer patients (HNC) attending cancer care centre at a tertiary care centre, Tamil Nadu. OBJECTIVES: To assess the perceived stress and the burden among caregivers of patients with head and neck cancer using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Caregiver Strain Index (CSI) respectively. MATERIALS AND METHOD: A Cross-sectional study was carried out for a period of three months among the caregivers of head and neck cancer patients at a cancer care centre, Madurai. A total of 200 caregivers were selected by Convenience sampling method. Data was collected using a pretested, self-structured, closed-ended questionnaire by face to face interview method. RESULTS: The study population consisted of Caregivers aged 21-60 years, mostly females (80%), spouses (54%), employed (57%) and uneducated (66%). Most of the caregivers were from lower socioeconomic status (66%) and those who are providing care for 1 to 6 months were more in number. In this study, 82% of caregivers reported high caregiver burden (CSI ≥7) and 67% of caregivers reported high stress (PSS ≥ 26 - 40). CONCLUSION: Caregivers are experiencing significant burden, particularly with respect to their physical and psychological well-being, economic circumstances, social and personal relationships.

Prevalence, trends, and demographic characteristics associated with self-reported financial stress among head and neck cancer patients in the United States of America.

BACKGROUND: Understanding the economic burden imposed by head and neck cancer diagnoses essential to contextualize healthcare decision-making for these patients. METHODS: A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of the US National Health Interview Survey was performed between 2013 and 2018. Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of adult head and neck cancer patients were analyzed in relation to survey responses related to financial stress factors. RESULTS: Among 710 head and neck cancer patients, 21.39% (95% Cl, 17.69%-25.09%) reported difficulty paying medical bills within the previous 12 months. Multivariable logistic regression revealed insurance status [aOR 2.17 (95% CI, 1.15-4.07), p < 0.001] and poverty status [aOR 2.55 (95% CI, 1.48-4.37), p = 0.017] to be significantly associated with difficulty paying medical bills. CONCLUSION: A large proportion of HNC patients may experience financial stress related not only to out-of-pocket health care costs, but also exogenous financial challenges. These findings suggest that a significant proportion of HNC patients may experience financial stress related not only to out-of-pocket health care costs, but also exogenous financial challenges. Such barriers may impede patients' ability to access and adhere to treatment or force detrimental tradeoffs between health care and other essential needs.

Translation and cross-cultural adaption of the Chinese version of the Vanderbilt Head and Neck Symptom Survey version 2.0: a tool for oral symptom assessment in head and neck cancer patients.

BACKGROUND: Patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) who are receiving radiotherapy commonly face detrimental complications, including oral issues. However, oral symptoms are not well understood given the lack of available specific assessment instruments. The Vanderbilt Head and Neck Symptom Survey version (VHNSS) 2.0 is an instrument specifically developed to identify oral symptoms in HNC patients receiving radiotherapy in the United States. OBJECTIVE: To perform the translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the original English version of VHNSS 2.0 into a Chinese version (Mainland China). METHODS: The translation and cultural adaptation process involved translation by independent translators, construction of a consensus version, back translation into the original English version, analysis by the expert committee and a pretest. The pretest was administered to 90 patients with HNC to assess the feasibility and practicality of the tool. RESULTS: The final Chinese version approved by the expert committee was well understood by all participants in the study. The instrument had satisfactory content validity, with indexes of 0.83 for semantic and idiomatic equivalence, 0.90 for cultural equivalence, and 0.91 for conceptual equivalence. Furthermore, this version had good internal consistency, with Cronbach's alpha coefficients ranging from 0.74 to 0.95. CONCLUSION: The Chinese version of VHNSS 2.0 was translated and cross-culturally adapted for use in China. This translation is a feasible instrument to assess oral health-related quality of life in HNC patients undergoing radiotherapy and will be useful for symptom management by clinicians and researchers in China.

Quality of life, coping strategies, and supportive care needs in head and neck cancer survivors: a qualitative study.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this qualitative study was to better understand the lived experience of head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors between 6 months to 9 years post-radiation. Quality of life, coping strategies, concerns for the future, and preferences for supportive care were explored. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in 31 HNC survivors from a Midwestern hospital. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis. RESULTS: Survivors described restrictions on daily living, social eating, and financial concerns. Despite these restrictions, survivors reported an overall high mentality and enjoyment of life. Coping considerations included adapting to a new normal and increased involvement in cancer support and faith groups. Preferences for supportive care included receiving more information about and being more involved in the treatment care plan, referrals to therapy and support groups, and more comprehensive follow-up in survivorship. CONCLUSIONS: While long-term HNC survivors adapt to daily living restrictions, a high proportion continue to have unmet needs. This data can guide the development of HNC survivorship interventions to inform optimal clinical guidelines based on patients' perceived needs. This qualitative study uncovered distinct perceived needs of HNC survivors which can inform future service development. Incorporating referrals to supportive care services including speech language pathologist, physical therapists, and dietitians into the standard of care before, during, and after treatment would assist survivors in adapting to life after treatment and managing long-term health consequences of their disease.

Longitudinal Assessment of Frailty and Quality of Life in Patients Undergoing Head and Neck Surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To understand changes in frailty and quality of life (QOL) in frail versus non-frail patients undergoing surgery for head and neck cancer (HNC). METHODS: Prospective cohort study of patients (median age 67 (50, 88)) with HNC undergoing surgery from December 2011 to April 2014. Fried's Frailty Index, Vulnerable Elders Survey (VES-13), and comprehensive QOL assessments (EORTC QLQ-C30 and HN35) were completed at baseline and 3, 6, and 12-month post-operative visits. Change in frailty and QOL over time was compared between frailty groups (non-frail (score 0), pre-frail (score 1-2), and frail (score 3-5)) using a mixed effects model. Predictors of long-term elevated frailty (12 months > baseline) were analyzed using logistic regression. RESULTS: The study had 108 patients classified as non-frail (47%), 104 pre-frail (mean (SD) 1.3 (0.4), 45%), and 17 frail (3.4 (0.6); 7%). Frailty score decreased significantly for frail patients 3 months post-operatively (2.1 (1.0); P = .002) and remained significantly lower than baseline at 6 and 12 months (2.1 (1.4); P = .0008 and 2.2 (1.5); P = .005, respectively) while frailty score increased for non-frail patients at 3 months (1.1 (1.0); P < .001) and then decreased. Forty-eight patients (21%) had long-term elevated frailty, with baseline frailty and marital status identified as predictors on univariate analysis. The frail population had significantly worse QOL scores at baseline, which persisted 12 months post-operatively. CONCLUSIONS: Frail patients demonstrate a decrease in frailty score following surgical treatment of HNC. Frail patients have significantly worse QOL scores on longitudinal assessment and would benefit from supportive services throughout their care. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3 Laryngoscope, 131:E2232-E2242, 2021.

Measuring financial toxicity incurred after treatment of head and neck cancer: Development and validation of the Financial Index of Toxicity questionnaire.

BACKGROUND: The treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC) may cause significant financial toxicity to patients. Herein, the authors have presented the development and validation of the Financial Index of Toxicity (FIT) instrument. METHODS: Items were generated using literature review and were based on expert opinion. In item reduction, items with factor loadings of a magnitude <0.3 in exploratory factor analysis and inverse correlations (r < 0) in test-retest analysis were eliminated. Retained items constituted the FIT. Reliability tests included internal consistency (Cronbach α) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation). Validity was tested using the Spearman rho by comparing FIT scores with baseline income, posttreatment lost income, and the Financial Concerns subscale of the Social Difficulties Inventory. Responsiveness analysis compared change in income and change in FIT between 12 and 24 months. RESULTS: A total of 14 items were generated and subsequently reduced to 9 items comprising 3 domains identified on exploratory factor analysis: financial stress, financial strain, and lost productivity. The FIT was administered to 430 patients with HNC at 12 to 24 months after treatment. Internal consistency was good (α = .77). Test-retest reliability was satisfactory (intraclass correlation, 0.70). Concurrent validation demonstrated mild to strong correlations between the FIT and Social Difficulties Inventory Money Matters subscale (Spearman rho, 0.26-0.61; P < .05). FIT scores were found to be inversely correlated with baseline household income (Spearman rho, -0.34; P < .001) and positively correlated with lost income (Spearman rho, 0.24; P < .001). Change in income was negatively correlated with change in FIT over time (Spearman rho, -0.25; P = .04). CONCLUSIONS: The 9-item FIT demonstrated internal and test-retest reliability as well as concurrent and construct validity. Prospective testing in patients with HNC who were treated at other facilities is needed to further establish its responsiveness and generalizability.

Assessment of Quality of Life in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer.

BACKGROUND: With the improvement of the results of oncological treatment, the concept of Quality of Life (QoL) has become increasingly important. Quantitative expression of the length of survival does not provide complete information on all advantages and disadvantages of the applied treatment. Hence, natural societal inquiry arises to answer the question what is QoL that such treatment option brings to the patient. With equivalent effi cacy of diff erent treatment modalities, the expected QoL after treatment might be the most important factor infl uencing the patients decision for a particular type of treatment. Questionnaires are the basic tools on quantifying QoL. Over the last decades, the development of questionnaire tools has undergone a signifi cant process of evolution and nowadays, many diff erent validated measures are available to assess the physical, functional, emotional, and social impact of cancer and its treatment on patients life. In head and neck cancer treatment, the assessment of QoL outcomes is especially important for patients and healthcare workers because of the potential negative impact of the treatment on important functions such as speech, swallowing, communication and social relationships. PURPOSE: The purpose of this article is to provide an up-to-date overview of validated questionnaire tools used in clinical practice with emphasis on potential future improvement in their design and clinical utility. The article defi nes the concept of QoL itself and currently available forms of its evaluation. Furthermore, the types of individual questionnaire tools are discussed within the text with practical and clearly arranged examples of world-famous validated scales evaluating specifi c items that represent the focus of research interest.

Potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on financial toxicity in cancer survivors.

BACKGROUND: In the context of COVID-19, cancer survivors represent a particularly vulnerable population that may be "doubly hit" by both costs of cancer treatment and financial strain imposed by the pandemic. METHODS: We performed a review of the literature pertaining to cancer, financial toxicity, and economic challenges. RESULTS: Multiple societies have put forth recommendations to modify delivery of cancer care in order to minimize patient exposure to the virus. Cancer survivors, especially patients with head and neck cancer, have been disproportionately affected by rising unemployment levels and economic recessions in the past, both of which are linked to higher cancer mortality. Patients who rely on employer-provided insurance and do not qualify for Medicaid may lose access to life-saving treatments. CONCLUSIONS: It is essential to implement interventions and policy changes in order to mitigate the effects of this pandemic but also to ensure this becomes a nonissue during the next one.

Immediate post-treatment supportive care needs of patients newly diagnosed with head and neck cancer.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed at identifying supportive care needs of patients with head and neck cancer (HNC-P) immediately post-treatment, finding early predictors of unmet needs, and contrasting how immediate post-treatment needs differed from needs in longer-term survivorship. METHODS: Prospective longitudinal study of 223 consecutive adults (313 approached; 72% participation) newly diagnosed with a first occurrence of primary HNC. Patients completed the Supportive Care Needs Survey-Short Form (SCNS), the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV, and other outcomes. Medical chart reviews were conducted. RESULTS: A total of 68% of patients (n = 145/223) completed the SCNS. The multiple linear regression indicated that when controlled for medical variables, patients presented higher levels of unmet needs when they presented with higher level of anxiety upon HNC diagnosis (p = 0.03), higher neuroticism (p = 0.03), and more stressful life events in the year pre-diagnosis (p = 0.01). Patients immediately post-treatment had a wider variety of unmet needs compared with those in extended survivorship, with psychological unmet needs most prevalent at both time points. Immediately post-treatment, patients needed more support regarding pain (p = 0.04) and worries about treatment results (p = 0.05), whereas patients in longer-term survivorship needed more support regarding anxiety (p = 0.02), changes in sexual relationships (p = 0.04), and fear of death and dying (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study identifies areas needing further development to improve quality of care for HNC-P in the immediate post-treatment period, as well as early determinants of unmet needs. HNC clinics may want to routinely screen for anxiety, neuroticism, and burden from other life events, to pro-actively address needs upon treatment completion and alleviate disease burden.

Self-Completion of the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment Short Form Is Feasible and Is Associated With Increased Awareness on Malnutrition Risk in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to assess feasibility of self-completion of the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment Short Form (PG-SGA SF) by head and neck cancer patients, and to assess self-reported increased awareness regarding malnutrition risk after self-completion. METHODS: Participants were randomized to complete the PG-SGA SF by paper or app. Feasibility was assessed by time needed to complete the PG-SGA SF, perceived difficulty, and help needed during completion. Participants were asked if they knew what malnutrition was (yes/no) and if they could define "malnutrition." They were also asked 9 questions on whether they perceived increased awareness of malnutrition risk after having completed the PG-SGA SF and 2 on their intention to change lifestyle habits. RESULTS: Of all participants (n = 59; 65.9 ± 12.6 years; 73% male), 55% completed the PG-SGA SF paper version and 46% the Pt-Global app. Median time needed for self-completion of the PG-SGA SF was 2 minutes 41 seconds (interquartile range: 1 minute 49 seconds-3 minutes 50 seconds). Forty-eight percent needed help with completion, indicating acceptable feasibility. Participants who completed the Pt-Global app needed help significantly more often (66%; 21/32) than those who completed the PG-SGA SF paper version (26%; 7/27) (P = 0.005). All difficulty scores were excellent. For 7/9 questions on malnutrition risk awareness, >50% of the participants answered positively. CONCLUSION: The results of this study show that self-completion of the PG-SGA SF by head and neck cancer patients is feasible and that awareness regarding malnutrition risk may increase after completing the PG-SGA SF.

The impact of home enteral feeding on the daily lives of people with head and neck cancer: a metasynthesis of qualitative studies.

BACKGROUND: Home enteral feeding (HEF) may have a wider impact on peoples' daily lives beyond influencing their nutritional and clinical status. This metasynthesis aimed to determine the impact of HEF on peoples' daily lives. METHODS: Qualitative studies were included with adults, who had been diagnosed with head and neck cancer and had finished their cancer treatment, with a feeding tube in place. Medline, PubMed and Cinahl were searched (August 2009 to August 2019). Thematic synthesis was conducted to interpret findings from the included studies. The 'Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research' (GRADE-CERQual) approach was used to assess the level of confidence associated with each review finding. RESULTS: Seven qualitative studies met the eligibility criteria. Four overarching themes were identified. 'Loss of life as they once knew it' encompassed loss of normality. 'Developing personal coping strategies works towards restoring a sense of normality' encapsulated active adjustment and acceptance of the feeding tube. 'Navigating the hurdles when transitioning back to eating' comprised the trials and tribulations of returning to oral intake. Overall, participants recognised that they could not have managed without the feeding tube and this is encapsulated in 'Feeding tube valued'. CONCLUSIONS: In many cases, initial feelings of change and loss as a result of HEF were replaced with empowerment, adaptation and acceptance following a period of adjustment. Despite the challenges associated with HEF, participants acknowledged its purpose as being functional, as well as reassuring. Future research should explore barriers and facilitators to self-management and patient empowerment amongst those receiving HEF.

Mapping the EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-H&N35 to the EQ-5D for head and neck cancer: Can disease-specific utilities be obtained?

INTRODUCTION: Innovations in head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment are often subject to economic evaluation prior to their reimbursement and subsequent access for patients. Mapping functions facilitate economic evaluation of new treatments when the required utility data is absent, but quality of life data is available. The objective of this study is to develop a mapping function translating the EORTC QLQ-C30 to EQ-5D-derived utilities for HNC through regression modeling, and to explore the added value of disease-specific EORTC QLQ-H&N35 scales to the model. METHODS: Data was obtained on patients with primary HNC treated with curative intent derived from two hospitals. Model development was conducted in two phases: 1. Predictor selection based on theory- and data-driven methods, resulting in three sets of potential predictors from the quality of life questionnaires; 2. Selection of the best out of four methods: ordinary-least squares, mixed-effects linear, Cox and beta regression, using the first set of predictors from EORTC QLQ-C30 scales with most correspondence to EQ-5D dimensions. Using a stepwise approach, we assessed added values of predictors in the other two sets. Model fit was assessed using Akaike and Bayesian Information Criterion (AIC and BIC) and model performance was evaluated by MAE, RMSE and limits of agreement (LOA). RESULTS: The beta regression model showed best model fit, with global health status, physical-, role- and emotional functioning and pain scales as predictors. Adding HNC-specific scales did not improve the model. Model performance was reasonable; R2 = 0.39, MAE = 0.0949, RMSE = 0.1209, 95% LOA of -0.243 to 0.231 (bias -0.01), with an error correlation of 0.32. The estimated shrinkage factor was 0.90. CONCLUSIONS: Selected scales from the EORTC QLQ-C30 can be used to estimate utilities for HNC using beta regression. Including EORTC QLQ-H&N35 scales does not improve the mapping function. The mapping model may serve as a tool to enable cost-effectiveness analyses of innovative HNC treatments, for example for reimbursement issues. Further research should assess the robustness and generalizability of the function by validating the model in an external cohort of HNC patients.

Estimating health state utility from activities of daily living in the French National Hospital Discharge Database: a feasibility study with head and neck cancer.

BACKGROUND: Health state utility (HSU) is a core component of QALYs and cost-effectiveness analysis, although HSU is rarely estimated among a representative sample of patients. We explored the feasibility of assessing HSU in head and neck cancer from the French National Hospital Discharge database. METHODS: An exhaustive sample of 53,258 incident adult patients with a first diagnosis of head and neck cancer was identified in 2010-2012. We used a cross-sectional approach to define five health states over two periods: three "cancer stages at initial treatment" (early, locally advanced or metastatic stage); a "relapse state" and otherwise a "relapse-free state" in the follow-up of patients initially treated at early or locally advanced stage. In patients admitted in post-acute care, a two-parameter graded response model (Item Response Theory) was estimated from all 144,012 records of six Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and the latent health state scale underlying ADLs was calibrated with the French EQ-5D-3 L social value set. Following linear interpolation between all assessments of the patient, daily estimates of utility in post-acute care were averaged by health state, patient and month of follow-up. Finally, HSU was estimated by health state and month of follow-up for the whole patient population after controlling for survivorship and selection in post-acute care. RESULTS: Head and neck cancer was generally associated with poor HSU estimates in a real-life setting. As compared to "distant metastasis at initial treatment", mean HSU was higher in other health states, although numerical differences were small (0.45 versus around 0.54). It was primarily explained by the negative effects on HSU of an older age (38.4% aged ≥70 years in "early stage at initial treatment") and comorbidities (> 50% in other health states). HSU estimates significantly improved over time in the "relapse-free state" (from 8 to 12 months of follow-up). CONCLUSIONS: HSU estimates in head and neck cancer were primarily driven by age at diagnosis, comorbidities, and time to assessment of cancer survivors. This feasibility study highlights the potential of estimating HSU within and across severe conditions in a systematic way at the national level.

Health-related quality of life and utility in head and neck cancer survivors.

BACKGROUND: This study seeks to assess quality of life (QOL) and utility scores of head and neck cancer survivors. METHODS: We compared QOL as indicated by EORTC QLQ-C30, QLQ-H&N35, utility scores by time trade off (TTO) with previous published reference values and tested series characteristics related to global QOL and utility. RESULTS: A total of 127 patients were recruited. Of the patients, 102 (80%) completed the utility assessment. Cancer survivors had lower scores compared with norm values. Patients without a spouse had a lower utility than those with a spouse. Patients with a low annual family income also had lower global QOL and utility scores (p < 0.05). Other factors were not significantly related to QOL and utility scores. CONCLUSION: Disease and treatment of head and neck cancer lead to disability and poor health-related QOL and utility. Economic status may contribute to health-related QOL and utility, while marital status is related to utility for head and neck cancer patients.

Association of Head and Neck Cancer With Mental Health Disorders in a Large Insurance Claims Database.

IMPORTANCE: Although a few studies have shown that mental health disorders (MHDs) are strongly associated with the 5-year survival and recurrence rates in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC), none have been replicated in a large-scale study. OBJECTIVE: To describe the prevalence of MHDs in patients with HNC and the potential associations with survival and recurrence using a large insurance claims database. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: This retrospective cohort study assessed data queried from the MarketScan database from January 1, 2005, through December 31, 2014, for 52 641 patients with a diagnosis of HNC. To exclude patients with a preexisting HNC diagnosis or those with incomplete data, patients were included if they were in the database for at least 12 months before the index diagnosis and continuously enrolled. Data were analyzed from February 20, 2017, through January 22, 2019. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: To compare the frequency of MHDs before and after diagnosis of HNC, χ2 tests for independence were used. Adjusted adds ratios (aORs) were obtained using multivariable logistic regression by comparing the prevalence of MHDs in patients with oral cavity cancer and those with other cancer sites in the head and neck. RESULTS: Among the 52 641 patients included in the analysis (mean [SD] age, 51.31 [9.79] years), men (58.5%), patients aged 55 to 64 years (46.6%), and those from the South (40.3%) were most commonly affected by HNC. Oral cavity cancers (40.4%) were the most common type, followed by cancers of the oropharynx (19.2%) and larynx (15.5%). Of the various cancer sites, the OR for MHD prevalence was significantly increased in patients with cancers of the trachea compared with the oral cavity (2.11; 95% CI, 1.87-2.38). The prevalence of MHDs in patients with HNC increased to 29.9% compared with 20.6% before the cancer diagnosis. Specifically, women (adjusted OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.49-1.67) and patients with a history of tobacco use (adjusted OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.34-1.50) and alcohol use (adjusted OR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.38-1.76) had significantly higher odds of MHDs after the diagnosis of HNC. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Although the baseline MHD prevalence of 20.6% before the cancer diagnosis was close to the national average (17.9% according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health), results of this study showed that it increased to 29.9% after the cancer diagnosis. Women and patients with a history of tobacco and alcohol use were most susceptible to being diagnosed with an MHD. There is an association between patients with HNC and an increased prevalence of MHDs after treatment compared with the general population.

Cancer-related financial hardship among head and neck cancer survivors: Risk factors and associations with health-related quality of life.

OBJECTIVE: Cancer survivors are susceptible to financial hardship. In head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors, we investigated (a) predictors for cancer-related financial hardship and (b) associations between financial hardship and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in HNC survivors identified from the National Cancer Registry Ireland. HRQoL was based on the Functional Assessment for Cancer Therapy General (FACT-G) plus Head and Neck Module (FACT-HN). Objective cancer-related financial hardship (financial stress) was assessed as household ability to make ends meet due to cancer and subjective financial hardship (financial strain) as feelings about household financial situation due to cancer. Modified Poisson regression was used to identify predictors for financial hardship. Bootstrap linear regression was used to estimate associations between hardship and FACT domain scores. RESULTS: Pre-diagnosis retirement (relative risk [RR] 0.50, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.37-0.67), pre-diagnosis financial stress (RR 1.85, 95% CI 1.58-2.15), and treatment were significantly associated with objective financial hardship. Predictors of subjective financial hardship were similar: aged greater than or equal to 65 years, pre-diagnosis financial stress, and treatment. Participants with objective financial hardship reported significantly lower physical (coefficient -3.45, 95% CI -4.39 to -2.44), emotional (-2.01, 95% CI -2.83 to -1.24), functional (-2.56, 95% CI -3.77 to -1.33) and HN-specific HRQoL (-3.55, 95% CI -5.04 to -2.23). Physical, emotional, and functional HN-specific HRQoL were also significantly lower in participants with subjective financial hardship. CONCLUSION: Cancer-related financial hardship is common and associated with worse HRQoL among HNC survivors. This supports the need for services and supports to address financial concerns among HNC survivors.

Carga del cuidador en cuidadores informales primarios de pacientes con cáncer de cabeza y cuello / Caregiver burden in primary informal caregivers of patients with head and neck cancer

Introducción: El cáncer constituye actualmente en Cuba la segunda causa de muerte para todas las edades y es una enfermedad compleja, cuya connotación psicosocial repercute no solo en el paciente, sino en todos aquellos que conforman su red de apoyo social. Objetivo: caracterizar la carga del cuidador en cuidadores informales primarios de pacientes con cáncer de cabeza y cuello, hospitalizados en el Instituto Nacional de Oncología y Radiobiología de La Habana, desde diciembre de 2016 a marzo de 2017. Material y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo-correlacional, desde una metodología mixta, a 100 pacientes que cumplieron con determinados criterios de inclusión. Se aplicó para la recogida de la información una entrevista a sujetos tipos, y el instrumento Cuestionario de Carga del Cuidador de Zarit, y se solicitó el consentimiento informado de los cuidadores para su participación. Resultados: Los resultados revelaron altos niveles de carga del cuidador, siendo la dimensión impacto del cuidado la más afectada y la carga interpersonal la menos dañada. Se demostró que, a menor conocimiento del cuidador sobre la enfermedad del paciente, mayor carga del cuidador y carga interpersonal. Conclusiones: Se obtuvo que el nivel de moderado a severo de la carga de los cuidadores informales primarios del estudio se debió fundamentalmente a las afectaciones en la salud física y psíquica, limitaciones en las áreas personal y laboral, y estados emocionales negativos: ansiedad, preocupación y rasgos depresivos(AU)

Introduction: Cancer in Cuba is currently the second cause of death at all ages for being an extremely complex disease because of the various characteristics in terms of etiology, location, evolution and prognosis. In addition, it has a psychosocial connotation and a negative emotional impact not only for the patient, but also for all those people who are part of a network of social support. Objective: The objective of this research was to characterize the caregiver burden in primary caregivers of patients with head and neck cancer, hospitalized at the National Institute of Oncology and Radiobiology from December 2016 to March 2017. Materials and methods: A mixed methodology descriptive-correlational study was carried out on 100 patients who met certain inclusion criteria. An interview for the collection of the information and the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale were applied to subject types. Informed consent of the caregivers was obtained for their participation in the study. Results: The results revealed high levels of caregiver burden. The most affected dimension was the impact of care whereas the interpersonal burden was the least damaged dimension. It was demonstrated that, to a lesser knowledge of the caregiver about the patient's illness, greater caregiver burden and interpersonal burden. Conclusions: It was concluded that the moderate to severe level of the burden of the primary informal caregivers of the study was mainly due to the affectations in the physical and mental health, the limitations in the personal and work areas, and the existence of negative emotional states: anxiety, worry, and depressive traits(AU)

Evaluation of a survivorship needs assessment planning tool for head and neck cancer survivor-caregiver dyads.

PURPOSE: The objectives of this study were to test the acceptability and feasibility of a survivorship needs assessment planning (SNAP) tool for head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors and caregivers, evaluate short-term changes in psychosocial outcomes after completing the SNAP session, and develop strategies for system refinement. METHODS: We used a prospective one-group design and mixed methods with HNC survivors and caregivers (N = 25 dyads). Participants completed baseline and 6-week surveys before and after completing a SNAP clinic visit to assess psychosocial outcomes and acceptability. Intervention sessions included tablet-based needs assessments driving tailored care plans. Dyads' open-ended feedback and clinician interviews (N = 12) evaluated acceptability and feasibility. RESULTS: SNAP data collection time burden and technology challenges were minimal, and care plans included messages (M = 19), educational materials (M = 13), and referrals (M = 4.5; 86% behavioral medicine, 77% nutrition, 65% physical therapy). Participants reported high satisfaction with the session and care plan, highlighting the key strengths of pulling complex medical information together and the focus on caregiver well-being, with multiple suggestions to facilitate clinic workflow. Depression and unmet needs decreased and survivorship knowledge increased significantly in survivors and caregivers (p < .05) over the 6-week period. CONCLUSIONS: The SNAP tool is an innovative technology-based survivor-centered strategy to assess and manage needs in HNC survivors and caregivers. Results support its acceptability and ability to address dyads' needs; the tool merits further testing in a clinical trial. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: Technology-enabled care planning may be a productive way to assess and address HNC dyads' dynamic needs after treatment.