MULTIDIMENSIONAL CARE FOR HEAD AND NECK CANCER: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL EVIDENCE AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO PREVENTIVE MEDICINE

Abstract

Introduction: Head and neck cancer constitutes a heterogeneous group of neoplasms affecting the upper aerodigestive tract, presenting a significant impact on morbidity, functionality, and quality of life of patients. The analysis of epidemiological and clinical aspects is essential to guide strategies for prevention, early diagnosis, and therapeutic management. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological and clinical profile of patients with head and neck cancer treated at a private referral hospital in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study based on the analysis of electronic medical records of patients treated between 2010 and 2023. Sociodemographic variables, lifestyle habits, comorbidities, tumor type, clinical staging, initial symptoms, treatment modalities, and complications were evaluated. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The sample included 94 patients, predominantly female (57.4%) and aged between 18 and 59 years (72.3%). Papillary thyroid carcinoma was the most frequent tumor type (58.5%). Smoking (56.3%) and alcoholism (54.2%) were widely observed. Early-stage tumors predominated (T1 – 49.2%), with cervical nodules being the most frequent initial symptom (42.5%). Surgery was the main therapeutic modality (98.9%), and approximately 80% of patients presented post-treatment complications, mainly dysphonia. Conclusion: The findings indicate relatively early diagnosis in patients with access to the private healthcare system, although modifiable risk factors remain prevalent. Knowledge of the epidemiological profile can contribute to strengthening strategies for prevention, early diagnosis, and interdisciplinary care in head and neck cancer.