Detecting and reducing suicide risk in head and neck cancer patients

Suicide risk detection and mitigation in patients with head and neck cancer

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10917413

This study is all about finding better ways to help people with head and neck cancer who might be feeling suicidal, by training doctors and nurses to spot these feelings early and offer the right support.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10917413 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing and implementing effective methods to identify and reduce the risk of suicide among patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer. It aims to train healthcare professionals in psychiatric epidemiology and psycho-oncology to better screen for suicidal thoughts and behaviors using established tools like the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). By addressing the unique challenges faced by these patients, the research seeks to improve mental health outcomes and provide targeted interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with head and neck cancer who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients with head and neck cancer who are not experiencing any mental health issues or suicidal ideation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly decrease suicide rates among head and neck cancer patients by providing timely and effective mental health support.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in implementing suicide screening in various clinical settings, indicating that this approach could be effective for head and neck cancer patients as well.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Adjustment Disorders, Cancer Cause, Cancer Etiology, Cancer Patient, Cancer Survivor

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.