Dados do Resumo

Título

Overview of head and neck cancer hospitalization over two decades in the State of São Paulo

Introdução

Head and neck cancers represent a heterogeneous group of tumors located in the lip, oral cavity, and pharynx. In 2022, an estimated 758,020 new cases were reported worldwide, with a standardized incidence rate of 4.2 per 100,000 women and 11.8 per 100,000 men. These cancers are frequently associated with behavioral risk factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption, as well as human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and prolonged sun exposure.

Objetivo

To evaluate the landscape of hospitalizations due to head and neck cancer in the State of São Paulo over the past two decades.

Métodos

Analytical cases of head and neck cancer (C00-C14), diagnosed between 2000 and 2020 and originating from 79 hospitals, were obtained from the Hospital-Based Cancer Registry of São Paulo State. These cases were evaluated by sex, clinical stage (CS) at diagnosis, and by Regional Health Department (RHD) of residence. The CS at diagnosis was classified as in situ, early (I and II), or advanced (III and IV). Overall survival rates up to 5 years, by CS, were obtained for cases diagnosed between 2000 and 2018 and followed up until the end of 2023.

Resultados

Of the 42,544 identified cases of head and neck cancer, 61% (25,794) were related to oral cancer (C00-C06), ranking as the 3rd most frequent cancer among men and the 9th among women. Prevalence was high in males (81%), accounting for four out of every five diagnoses, and among individuals aged 60 years or older (46%). Advanced CS represented 70.5% of the cases recorded during the period, with only 1.5% classified as in situ. All RHDs showed a higher proportion of advanced CS at diagnosis, with higher values of early CS identified in Presidente Prudente (40%), Barretos (37.2%), and Marília (35.5%). Overall survival at 1 and 5 years, for early vs. advanced CS, was 77% vs. 39% and 56% vs. 21%, respectively, with median survival being higher in females. By the end of 2023, 26.9% of patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer were still alive.

Conclusões

The high proportion of advanced clinical staging at diagnosis for head and neck cancer in the State of São Paulo significantly impacts survival rates. Early detection is crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes, improving survival rates, and enhancing patients' quality of life. Raising awareness of early signs and symptoms, alongside implementing screening strategies and regular examinations, will be essential in reducing the burden of this cancer on the São Paulo population in the future.

Palavras Chave

Head and neck cancers; Clinical staging; Survival