Head and neck cancer affects vitals structures and may interfere with essential functions such as breathing, swallowing and speaking. The dominating histological type is squamous cell carcinoma, often relatively fast growing and 50% of these patients present with advanced stage disease. Early recognition of symptoms, fast referral, diagnosis and timely treatment of high quality is essential to improve the prognosis. The prognosis depends on the subtype and several other factors – however, we know that the socioeconomic differences in survival are pronounced for head and neck cancer.
To accommodate the need for a fast and structured approach to diagnosis and treatment, the national fast-track pathways were implemented as part of a legislative initiative to improve cancer care in 2007. While the system is now fully integrated into public healthcare and the exclusive route for cancer management, its long-term clinical impact has not been systematically evaluated.
This project aims to assess 15 years of fast-track experience for HNC by analyzing the full patient journey from first symptoms to diagnosis and treatment, effects on survival and recurrence, the role of socioeconomic position and tumor volume growth during waiting time. The project relies on national data from the DAHANCA database (Danish Head and Neck Cancer Study Group) as well as the national health registers, and imaging platforms.
This PhD will contribute with new knowledge about the fast-track pathway’s impact, strengths and weaknesses in a time where allocation of healthcare resources in the public healthcare system is discussed. As cancer incidence is expected to rise due to demographic changes, the findings will be essential for optimizing cancer care and may guide future adjustments to the fast-track system in Denmark.
Main Supervisor:
Kristine Bjørndal, Clinical Professor
Co-Supervisors:
Jesper Grau Eriksen, Clinical Professor
Jens Overgaard, Clinical Professor
