Head and neck cancer patients are receiving variable levels of support and treatment choice across England and Wales, according to a new national audit.
Some cancer networks are unable to show evidence of patients receiving important aspects of care, including multi-professional support from clinical nurse specialists, dietitians, and speech and swallowing therapists. The National Head and Neck Cancer Audit 2012 also found that patients with early larynx cancer, who should be able to choose between having laser surgery or radiotherapy, appear to only be offered radiotherapy in the majority of cases, in some cancer networks. In addition, the audit showed that, out of every 10 people diagnosed with a head or neck cancer, only seven survive beyond two years. The report also revealed that the number of oropharynx cancer cases is rising, making this the most common type of head and neck cancer. This may be due to a rise in the number of cases where human papilloma virus (HPV) is a primary cause. On a more positive note, the audit found that patients are now waiting less time for radiotherapy treatment after diagnosis, and a bigger proportion of patients are having their care discussed by a multidisciplinary team.
