Malnutrition evaluation in head and neck cancer patients: Practice patterns among otolaryngologists and radiation oncologists.

Abstract

Physician practice patterns regarding diagnosis and management of malnutrition in the head and neck cancer patient population are not well studied. A 17-question survey was distributed to 1392 members of the American Head and Neck Society (AHNS). The impact of hospital type, fellowship training, experience, and specialty was assessed. Among AHNS members, there were 124 total respondents (9% response rate), including both otolaryngologists and radiation oncologists. Respondents strongly agreed (90%) that malnutrition negatively impacts patient outcomes. The majority (63%) felt comfortable screening for malnutrition, but 13% reported no routine assessment of malnutrition; 57% were unfamiliar with relevant guidelines. Barriers to screening included lack of familiarity with screening tools/guidelines, lack of time, and lack of access to dietitian. Although there was a strong consensus among respondents that the identification and management of malnutrition among head and neck cancer patients is critical, familiarity with relevant guidelines was poor.