'Who are our patients?' A Socio-Demographic Profile of Head and Neck Cancer Patients

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to address a significant need for baseline local, Australian specific sociodemographic data at the time of diagnosis for people presenting with head and neck cancer. The findings provide fresh insights that challenge the assumption with regards to the socio-economically challenged profile of head and neck patients. Also of significance, the socio-demographic profile deepens our understanding of the psychosocial impact of the disease on work and employment, especially for those of working age. All data was obtained through patient medical chart audit and retrospective analysis of psychosocial and demographic assessment interview practitioner notes on all new service users who completed that assessment (n=301) at or just prior to the point of first presentation at the Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia Head and Neck Clinic in the calendar year 2008. Defined codes were developed through initial thematic analysis, team consensus and informed by current psychosocial health literature and health professionals working within the Clinic. Coded data was entered into SPSS to provide descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentage to provide a basis for analysis.