An increasing number of head and neck cancer (HNC) patients survive many years after treatment. They are at risk of developing late effects and these could be associated with worse health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and influence the nature of any concerns they want to discuss in consultations. The aim of this study was to report their HRQOL and concerns at oral and maxillofacial oncology review clinics, from 5-and 10-year after primary cancer diagnosis. Methods: The University of

more »

... quality of life questionnaire (UW-QOL v4) and Patient Concerns Inventory (PCI) were completed by patients attending review clinics from 4th June 2008 to 11th March 2020. Results: There were 167 with data at least 5 years after diagnosis, with 105 close to 5 years (median 63 months) and 99 at 10 years (median 119 months). Those under review for primary cancer fell from 50% at 5 years to 39% at 10 years, increased for osteoradionecrosis (ORN) from 27% to 36%, and for those seen for second primary or recurrence remained at 24%. HRQOL was notably worse in patients with further disease particularly at 5 years in regard to pain, chewing, taste and both the social-emotional and physical function subscales of the UW-QOL. The median [interquartile range (IQR)] number of PCI items at 5-and 10-year were 3 [1-7] and 4 [2-9] respectively. Conclusions: There were subtle differences in the frequency of PCI items however items related to dry mouth, dental function, and swallowing predominated. The findings highlight the complex needs of longterm survivors.