‘Survival’ to ‘Survivorship’ in Carcinoma Nasopharynx: are We Doing Enough?

Purpose Nasopharyngeal cancer patients face various survivorship challenges like psychosocial disturbances, body dysmorphia, failure to Return to Work (RTW), etc. These issues are concerning due to relatively younger age at diagnosis. Our study aims to address RTW and martial issues faced by these patients. Methods 194 nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients treated with radical intent Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) between 2014–2023, on regular follow-up, were included in the study, after taking written informed consent. RTW and marital issues were studied using questionnaires. P-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results Median age at diagnosis was 44 years (IQR = 32–57 years). Male:Female ratio was 2.3:1. 95.4% patients were literate. At diagnosis, 16.0% were students, 19.1% were homemakers, 57.7% were employed, 3.1% were unemployed, and 4.1% had retired. At follow-up, 9.8% were students, 20.1% were homemakers, 42.3% were employed, 19.6% were unemployed, and 8.2% were retired. Thus, there was a 16.5% increase in number of unemployed patients post-treatment. Marital status, education, and ISCO-08 (International Standard Classification of Occupations) Broad Skill Level were significantly associated with Failure to RTW (P < 0.05). 71.6% patients were married at baseline. 2 female patients who were married at baseline, were widowed at follow-up. 1 male reported getting divorced from his spouse, following treatment. Only 6 patients who were unmarried at baseline, got married post-treatment. Conclusions & Implications for Cancer Survivors: Even after major improvements in disease control among carcinoma nasopharynx patients, survivorship issues remain areas of concern, and there is a dire need to shift focus on successful rehabilitation of these patients.