Epidemiological and Demographic Characteristics of Patients with Head and Neck Tumours in the Northern Portugal: Impact on Survival

Introduction: In Portugal there are still no epidemiological and demographic studies conducted in patients with of the head and neck tumors. The objectives of this analysis are to describe the epidemiological and demographics of patients with malignant tumors of the head and neck referred to an Ear, Nose and Throat department of an oncology center in the North of Portugal and also assess the impact of these characteristics on survival. Material and Methods: Retrospective study of patients referred between January 2011 and December 2013 to the Ear, Nose and Throat Department of an oncology center (Instituto Portugues de Oncologia do Porto),. Five hundred sixty six patients were included. The analyzed variables were the anatomical location of the tumor, staging, gender and age of patients, the district of origin, the alcohol and tobacco consumption, educational level, occupation, marital status and family structure. Results: The 566 patients studied (498 men and 68 women) presented a mean age of 58.1 +/- 12.2 years. The majority (80.5%) were referenced in advanced stage of disease (III and IV). Seventy eight per cent of patients had moderate or excessive alcohol consumption and 69% were smokers. The vast majority of patients (82.3%) had only basic education. Patients with tumors of the hypopharynx and excessive drinking habits were referenced in more advanced stages and had a poorer survival (p < 0.001). Married patients were referred at earlier stages (p = 0.020) and patients without family support had poorer survival (p = 0.030). Discussion: Epidemiological data are in agreement with the international literature. The high rate of patients referred with advanced stage of disease can be attributed to the patient's delay in seeking medical care or by factors inherent to the referral system. Surveillance and family support play a key role in early referral and survival of these patients. Conclusion: This study features a population profile that can benefit from a higher degree of surveillance, awareness campaigns and/or screenings. Some of the variables can significantly influence the tumor stage and survival.