In this large analysis, we have shown the prognostic strength of the routine blood markers hemoglobin, GFR, CRP and albumin as surrogate parameters for anemia (thereby also, at least partly and indirectly, tumor oxygenation), renal function, systemic inflammation and nutrition status of elderly HNSCC patients undergoing (chemo)radiotherapy. The gene discussed is ALB; the disease is head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.