Understanding Disparities to Follow-Up Care in Head and Neck Cancer (2024-2025)
Head and neck cancer (HNC) outcomes are marked by significant racial disparities, with Black patients experiencing notably lower five-year survival rates compared to white patients. This student-led team set out to examine how social determinants of health contribute to inequities in follow-up care. The project focused on identifying barriers such as food insecurity, transportation issues and financial hardship that may prevent patients from receiving timely post-treatment care. The team aimed to better understand unmet social needs in HNC patients and pilot a community resource referral initiative to address them.
To support this work, the team conducted a scoping review of existing tools used to evaluate social determinants of health in HNC care, finding a lack of comprehensive assessment instruments tailored to this population. This work informed the development of a mixed-methods study including a survey to screen for social needs, a qualitative interview guide for high-need patients and a community resource handout. Despite delays in IRB approval, the team used this time to refine its study design and outreach materials.
With the project renewed for an additional year, the team plans to begin patient recruitment in summer 2025. By capturing data on social needs and providing targeted support to patients, the project seeks to lay the groundwork for future care models that better integrate social support into HNC treatment. Ultimately, the team hopes its findings will inform more equitable interventions and reduce racial and socioeconomic disparities in cancer outcomes.
Timing
Summer 2024 – Spring 2025
Team Outputs
Developed survey to screen for social needs
Interview guide for focus groups
Community resource guide
Presentation at the 2025 American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting, Chicago, IL, April 2025
Understanding Social Needs and Disparities in Head and Neck Cancer Care (Poster presentation at the Fortin Foundation Bass Connections Showcase, April 15, 2025)