Factors Within Healthcare Systems Affecting Diagnosis of Head and Neck Cancer: Insights from a Qualitative Study by the HEADSpAcE Consortium in Glasgow and Montevideo

To identify system variables and interactions reported by patients and staff, thereby identifying areas for future research and service improvement.

Study Design: Cross-sectional qualitative design using in-depth, semi-structured interviews with multiple stakeholders.
Setting: Conducted at two major cancer centers: WOSCAN in Glasgow, Scotland, and Hospital de Clinicas in Montevideo, Uruguay.
Participants: 29 interviews conducted with HNC patients and healthcare professionals, utilizing purposive and snowball sampling.

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a significant global health concern, with high incidence and mortality rates.
More than half of HNC cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, which negatively affects treatment outcomes.
Factors within health systems, such as the availability and accessibility of diagnostic facilities, play a role in the stage at which HNC is diagnosed.

The study calls for a thorough investigation of health system factors that influence the diagnosis of HNC, as existing evidence is limited.

The qualitative nature of the study may limit the generalizability of the findings.
The sample size and diversity of participants may not capture all perspectives on the issue.

Identifying health system factors is essential for enhancing the diagnostic pathways for HNC.