Analysis of ECOG performance status in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients: association with sociodemographical and clinical factors, and overall survival

In the present study, we analyzed sociodemographical and clinical factors, and the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG-PS) scale in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients. We evaluated the impact of a range of variables on overall survival. We investigated a sample of HNSCC patients (n = 671), using sociodemographical and clinical information, and survival data collected from a review of epidemiological, clinical, and treatment reports. Statistical associations were analyzed by bivariate and multivariate statistical tests. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Of patients 85.4% recorded good ECOG-PS scores. Poor ECOG-PS scores were associated with the covariates indicative of dysphagia [odd ratios (OR) = 2.660, CI 95% = 1.661-4.260, p = 0.000] and large-size malignant disease (T3-T4; OR = 5.337, CI 95% = 2.251-12.652, p = 0.000). Overall survival analysis revealed that ECOG-PS scores (OR = 1.879, CI 95% = 1.162-3.038, p = 0.010), tumor size (OR = 1.665, CI 95% = 1.035-2.680, p = 0.036), and the presence of cervical metastasis (OR = 3.145, CI 95% = 2.008-4.926, p = 0.000) were independent predictors. Evaluation of physical consumption in head and neck cancer patients at diagnosis may indicate a more aggressive type of malignant disease. Thus, the ECOG-PS scale may help to identify HNSCC patients in need of rapid referral, who may benefit from specific therapeutic and rehabilitative interventions.