Long-Term Quality of Life Outcomes After Head and Neck Cancer in New Zealand

Head Neck. 2025 Oct 2. doi: 10.1002/hed.70059. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Understanding quality of life (QOL) after head and neck cancer (HNC) is crucial for service planning. This study explored survivorship experiences in New Zealand.

METHODS: This study includes clinical records audit (n = 1277), cross-sectional online survey (n = 195), and semi-structured interviews (n = 22). Audit included all patients presenting to one tertiary cancer center (2012-2023). All 750 patients surviving > 12 months past primary treatment were invited to complete a survey. All survey respondents were offered follow-up interviews.

RESULTS: Patients (male: 72%, 51-70 years: 45%; oral cavity 32%, oropharynx 21%) were often diagnosed at advanced stages (T3-4: 45%) requiring multimodal treatment (71%). Survey respondents reported persisting voice difficulties (25% elevated VHI-10) and depression (18% elevated HADS). Fear of negative evaluation was evident in younger survey respondents. Psychological support was the most desired long-term service in surveys and interviews. Interviewees described a paucity of services post-treatment.

CONCLUSIONS: This study describes challenges accessing long-term support after HNC. Advocating for long-term support may enhance survivorship experiences.

PMID:41036581 | DOI:10.1002/hed.70059