Investigating the risks of long-term opioid use and mental health in head and neck cancer patients
Long-term Opioid Therapy, Depression and Suicide Mortality Risk in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer
This study looks at how taking opioids for a long time might impact feelings of depression and the risk of suicide in people with head and neck cancer, aiming to help improve pain management and mental health support for these patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10597344 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research examines how long-term opioid therapy affects depression and suicide risk in patients with head and neck cancer. It utilizes existing data to analyze the relationship between opioid use and mental health outcomes in this specific patient population. By focusing on the unique challenges faced by cancer survivors, particularly those with head and neck cancer, the study aims to provide insights into the psychosocial impacts of opioid therapy. The findings could help inform better pain management strategies and mental health support for these patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with head and neck cancer and have a history of opioid use.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of head and neck cancer or those who have not used opioids for pain management may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management protocols and mental health interventions for head and neck cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated significant mental health risks associated with opioid use in cancer patients, suggesting that this study builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Osazuwa-Peters, Nosayaba — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Osazuwa-Peters, Nosayaba
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.