Improving swallowing assessments for cancer patients with dysphagia
Dissemination and implementation of DIGEST™ as an evidence-based measurement tool for dysphagia in cancer
This study is testing a new tool called DIGEST™ to help doctors better understand and treat swallowing problems in cancer survivors, making it easier for them to get the care they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11031943 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the evaluation of swallowing difficulties, known as dysphagia, particularly in cancer survivors. It aims to implement an evidence-based tool called DIGEST™, which grades the severity of dysphagia using advanced imaging techniques. By integrating this tool into clinical practice, the research seeks to improve the accuracy of swallowing assessments and ultimately enhance patient care. The study will involve collaboration with speech-language pathologists to ensure effective adoption of this tool in various healthcare settings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer survivors experiencing dysphagia or swallowing difficulties.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have dysphagia or are not cancer survivors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management of swallowing difficulties in cancer patients, improving their quality of life and reducing healthcare costs.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that implementing evidence-based practices in clinical settings can significantly improve patient outcomes, suggesting a strong potential for success with this approach.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hutcheson, Katherine Arnold — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Hutcheson, Katherine Arnold
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.