Addressing Sexual Health in Head and Neck Cancer Patients

Published on: 01/19/26

Casey Fazer-Posorske, PA-C

Casey Fazer-Posorske is a Physician Assistant in the Division of Medical Oncology at Mayo Clinic, specializing in head and neck cancers. She holds a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and is an Assistant Professor of Oncology. She leads the head and neck oncology APP team and serves on multiple Mayo Clinic committees, including the Head and Neck Disease Group Executive Committee and the NP/PA Education Committee. She also chairs the APSHO Membership Committee.

Her work includes developing survivorship and immunotherapy toxicity clinics, directing a Hematology/Medical Oncology Fellowship, and advancing global oncology education through collaborations in Africa. Recognized for her leadership and educational impact, she is a member of the Academy of Educational Excellence and has presented internationally on oncology care.

Presentation Summary:

In her presentation, Casey Fazer-Posorske begins with an overview of head and neck cancer types, causes, and treatments, emphasizing how surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy impact patient quality of life. She then focuses on the physical, psychological, emotional, and social sexual health impacts—particularly in the context of HPV-related cancers. The presentation stresses the importance of proactive intervention and management strategies, including patient education, counseling, and appropriate referrals. Her core message is that addressing sexual health is an essential and often overlooked component of comprehensive cancer care, especially for survivors of head and neck cancers.