Psychological Survivorship in Head and Neck Cancer

Abstract

Survivorship for head and neck cancer patients presents unique challenges related to the anatomic location of their disease. After treatment, patients often have functional impairments requiring additional care and support. In addition, patients may have psychological challenges managing the effect of the disease and treatment. Routine screening is recommended for the identification of psychological conditions. This article reviews the latest research on key psychological conditions associated with head and neck cancer. It discusses risk factors for the development of each condition and provides recommendations for the management of patients who may present with psychological concerns.

Current and Emerging Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Predictive Biomarkers in Head and Neck Cancer

“…Despite advances in treatment, there has been a gradual increase in overall mortality, with five-year survival rates of approximately 50-85%, depending on the type and location of the tumor [1,5,6]. Treatment of HNC confers significant morbidity and impacts the quality of life [9][10][11][12].…”

Mobile Health System for Meeting Health Information Needs in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer Undergoing Radiotherapy

“…2 Due to the location-specific nature of cancer, patients with HNC face numerous physical, psychological, and practical challenges during diagnosis and treatment. 3,4 Patients in the early stages of treatment have a more comprehensive range of unmet needs than those in the survivor stage. 5 However, patients often report receiving insufficient information during and after treatment, particularly regarding specific symptom management and the healthcare system areas.…”

“…It has become the seventh most common tumor worldwide and is the eighth leading cause of tumor-related death 2 . Due to the location-specific nature of cancer, patients with HNC face numerous physical, psychological, and practical challenges during diagnosis and treatment 3,4 . Patients in the early stages of treatment have a more comprehensive range of unmet needs than those in the survivor stage 5 .…”