Radiation Therapy: Predictors of Nonadherence to Treatment Schedules Among Patients With Head and Neck Cancer

Background: Patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) often undergo a demanding treatment schedule, including radiation therapy (RT). Nonadherence to RT schedules is a documented problem among patients with HNC and can negatively affect patient outcomes.

Objectives: This retrospective, descriptive study aimed to examine whether demographic or clinical characteristics or physical and psychological symptoms were associated with nonadherence to RT among patients with HNC.

Methods: Electronic health records of 262 patients with HNC who received treatment at a cancer center in the southeastern United States were reviewed to determine whether nonadherence was related to symptom scores and other patient- and clinical-related factors.

Findings: Patients at highest risk for nonadherence included women, those admitted as inpatients during treatment, and those who received outpatient IV fluids during treatment. Nonadherent patients reported higher mean scores on 9 of 12 symptoms measured during treatment, indicating a higher symptom burden. Patients with tongue tumors, greater spiritual well-being, and less constipation were less likely to be nonadherent.