Aim: The aim of this symposium is to provide a forum for discussion of the complex supportive care needs of patients with head and neck cancer, including discussion of ways to translate evidence into clinical practice.
An overview will be provided about the evidence regarding psychosocial morbidity and supportive care needs of patients treated for head and neck cancer. (Jane Turner)
Marty Doyle will present an account of his personal experience of the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancer, including discussion of unmet needs
Ian Olver will present an overview of the philosophy and aims of the Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer, including evidence-based recommendations for supportive care and translation of these into clinical practice.
Skye Dong will present a theoretical overview of emerging evidence about symptom clusters and their value and significance in early detection of need or preventive interventions.
The symposium will then move to clinical presentations highlighting key issues affecting this patient population and panel members will address specific issues including coordination of care, attention to risk factors and prevention of morbidities, and the complexities of identification and pharmacological treatment of depression. There will be ample opportunity for questions and discussion from members of the audience.