Factors associated with quality of life in outpatients with head and neck cancer 6 months after diagnosis

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Identifying patients with head and neck cancer at greatest risk of poor health-related quality of life (HRQOL) will facilitate screening for such patients and targeted interventions. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional, self-administered survey with medical record review among 65 out-patients with head and neck cancer >6 months from diagnosis and off treatment. RESULTS: Most were men (80%) and white (95%), with a mean age of 60 +/- 13 years. The most prevalent cancer type was squamous cell (88%), site was pharyngeal (40%), and stage was III or IV (80%). Lower total HRQOL was independently associated with gastrostomy (p < .001) and history of radiation therapy (p < .05)(R(2) = 0.27). Certain HRQOL subscales were also independently associated with depression, body mass index, age, and education. CONCLUSIONS: Several factors can be used to identify patients with head and neck cancer at risk for persistent reductions in HRQOL requiring intervention.