Targets for improving disparate head and neck cancer outcomes in the low‐income population. Issue 6 (19th November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Entezami, Payam; Thomas, Bennett; Mansour, Jobran; Asarkar, Ameya; Nathan, Cherie‐Ann; Pang, John
• Is Part Of: Laryngoscope investigative otolaryngology. Volume 6:Issue 6(2021)
• Page Start: 1481
• Page End: 1488
• Publication Date: 2021-11-19
• Subjects: head and neck cancer -- health policy -- outcomes -- underserved; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Laryngoscopy -- Periodicals; Otolaryngology; Otolaryngology; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.51
• DOI: 10.1002/lio2.698
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2378-8038

Abstract

Abstract: 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.