Lessons from the network and next steps: the Wisconsin Head and Neck Cancer Network

In summary, the Wisconsin Head and Neck Cancer Control Network was formulated with the primary charge of improving the management of patients with head and neck cancer throughout the State. Detailed data on over 1500 patients representing 80 percent of all head and neck cancer patients in the State of Wisconsin was gathered, reviewed for quality, and analyzed. The data base consisted of information on the symptoms, signs, physical findings, treatment, complications, morbidity, and outcome. Although it was the impression of Network members that lesions were being noted earlier and treatment perhaps more effective, it was not possible to document this impression with the available data. The benchmarks of success of the overall project were numerous, however, particularly in the areas of public and professional education. The individuals reached were extremely receptive to new information. Several patients indicated that their dentist and dental hygienists, for example, were performing more thorough oral examinations. The effort was successful in establishing a network of physicians and institutions throughout the State cooperating with a common interest. It is hoped that in the future we can continue to build on the experience of the Network. Follow-up data has continued to accumulate through a largely voluntary effort of the coinvestigators, and this will enhance the value of the data base. Such follow-up data will certainly facilitate ongoing and future research projects based on this comprehensive information. To date, one publication has been prepared since termination of the project using the data base.