Factors predicting for patient refusal of head and neck cancer therapy

Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate the national rate of treatment refusal in head and neck cancer (HNC). Methods The National Cancer Database was queried for nonmetastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Oncologic therapy referred to receipt of surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. Results Compared to the 230 424 patients who received treatment, 2965 (1.3%) were reported to have refused definitive therapy. Predictors included older age, female sex, African‐American/other race, nonprivate insurance, greater comorbidities, more advanced disease, and residence closer to the treating facility (P