A rapid parallel increase in the incidence and mortality of head and neck cancer among the Polish elderly over the last two decades and upward trends until 2035

<b>Introduction:</b> Head and neck cancer (HNC) incidence and mortality have increased significantly among the elderly in Poland over the last two decades. This trend reflects the challenges of an aging population and underscores the need for specialized cancer care for seniors.<b>Aim:</b> The study aimed to analyze the morbidity and mortality of HNC among the elderly (ages 60-69, 70-79, and 80+) in Poland between 1999 and 2021, and predict trends until 2035, emphasizing the dynamics in the 80+ age group.<b>Material and methods:</b> Data from the Polish National Cancer Register were analyzed, focusing on specific HNC types classified by ICD10 codes. Regression and correlation analyses were conducted to evaluate the significance of trends in absolute and relative cases and mortality. The analysis used a Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons to determine statistical significance.<b>Results:</b> A significant increase in HNC cases and mortality was observed across all age groups, with the steepest relative growth in the 80+ cohort. Absolute case increases were similar for the 70-79 and 80+ cohorts, while the relative increase was highest in the 60-69 and 80+ groups. Mortality trends mirrored incidence trends, with men showing a higher increase in the 80+ group, while women had significant increases in the 60-69 cohort.<b>Conclusions:</b> The findings highlight a rapid rise in HNC incidence and mortality among the elderly in Poland, emphasizing the need for tailored treatment strategies, particularly for the 80+ age group. There is a growing demand for specialized care to optimize treatment outcomes and ensure quality of life for elderly HNC patients.