Work

Head and neck cancer trends in Ohio: Examining temporal, anatomical, and geospatial patterns across Appalachian and non-Appalachian regions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: Head and neck cancer (HNC) is the seventh most common type of cancer worldwide. Compared to the rest of the United States, Appalachia has higher incidence rates of HNC. The purpose of this project is to examine the temporal, anatomical, and geospatial variances in head and neck cancers across Ohio, focusing on disparities between Appalachian and non-Appalachian regions. METHODS: Data was sourced from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. The incidence and mortality rates of HNC across Ohio were identified and sub classified based on anatomical site. Social determinants of health and environmental factors affecting HNC raters were compared between Appalachian and non-Appalachian regions. RESULTS: The incidence (R = 0.9, P < 0.01) and mortality (R = 0.8, P < 0.01) of head and neck cancer increased significantly from 1999 to 2021 and demonstrated a relationship with mortality (R = 0.3, P < 0.01). Adult smoking (R = 0.5, P < 0.001), obesity (R = 0.5, P < 0.001), and dentist rates (R = 0.3, P < 0.01) were associated with HNC rates. Mean mortality was significantly higher for Appalachian (mean = 10.7, SD = 2.6) than non-Appalachian (mean = 8.6, SD = 2.4) regions (P < 0.01) communities. CONCLUSION: These findings emphasize the importance of addressing modifiable risk factors through smoking cessation, weight management, and dietary improvements. The difference in mortality between Appalachian and non-Appalachian regions underscores the role of geographic and socioeconomic disparities in shaping health outcomes across Ohio.

Source: American Journal of Otolaryngology

DOI: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2025.104634

Authors: Samuel Borgemenke, Milena Fabry, Elizabeth A. Beverly

Institution: Ohio University

Language: English

Topic: Head and Neck Cancer Studies

Subfield: Otorhinolaryngology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,630