Survivorship for head and neck cancer patients presents unique challenges related
to the anatomic location of their disease. After treatment, patients often have functional
impairments requiring additional care and support. In addition, patients may have
psychological challenges managing the effect of the disease and treatment. Routine
screening is recommended for the identification of psychological conditions. This
article reviews the latest research on key psychological conditions associated with
head and neck cancer. It discusses risk factors for the development of each condition
and provides recommendations for the management of patients who may present with psychological
concerns.
Keywords
survivorship - psychology - anxiety - depression - suicide - body image disturbance