Shortfalls in international, multidisciplinary outcome data collection following head and neck cancer: does the ICF Core Set for HNC provide a common solution?

This article summarizes different experiences from research groups working in the field of outcome research in head and neck cancer (HNC). It presents information that has been gathered over a number of years, and emphasizes areas where further research is needed. In this context, the importance of interdisciplinary and multi-institutional collaboration is emphasized. There is a substantial need for a standardized description tool to provide a common basic language for outcome research in HNC. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), as adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO), and disease-specific ICF Core Sets for HNC are introduced to describe functioning in HNC. Applications of the ICF Core Set for HNC for further research are discussed.