Using artificial intelligence to reduce complications in head and neck cancer treatment
Official title: Harvard MD Anderson Collaborative to Reduce LyMphatic MOrbidity in Head and Neck Cancer with Artificial Intelligence (HARMONiC-AI)
Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11105120 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to help people with head and neck cancers by using artificial intelligence to spot and manage problems like swelling and tissue hardening that can happen after treatment, so they can get the right care sooner and improve their recovery.
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 start | April 8, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $732,513 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DE034780-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11105120 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with head and neck cancer who are undergoing or have recently completed treatment involving radiation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with head and neck cancers who are not receiving radiation therapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the outcomes for patients with head and neck cancers by utilizing artificial intelligence to detect and manage complications such as lymphedema and fibrosis that often arise after treatment. The study aims to develop AI algorithms that can analyze routine CT scans to identify early signs of these complications, allowing for timely interventions. By automating the assessment process, the research seeks to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of diagnosing these conditions, ultimately leading to better personalized treatment plans. Patients will benefit from a more proactive approach to managing their post-treatment health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of debilitating complications in head and neck cancer survivors, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary research has shown promise in using AI for similar applications, indicating potential for success in this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fuller, Clifton David — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Fuller, Clifton David
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Combined Imaging and RNA Markers to Predict Head and Neck Cancer Recurrence
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Biomarker to guide treatment in head and neck cancer
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Intensive dental care during cancer follow-up to protect teeth after head and neck radiation
A program delivered in oncology clinics to provide fluoride varnish and dental follow-up aims to reduce tooth decay and improve oral health and quality of life for head and neck cancer patients after radiation therapy.
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AI-powered radiotherapy planning for cervical and head-and-neck cancer
A computer program helps plan radiation therapy for cervical and head-and-neck cancer patients to make treatments faster and more accurate.
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AI-powered radiotherapy planning for cervical and head-and-neck cancer
A United Kingdom study is testing AI software that helps plan radiotherapy for cervical and head-and-neck cancer patients to save time and reduce the workload for clinicians in low-resource settings.
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AI-powered radiotherapy planning for cervical and head-and-neck cancer
A UK research team is testing an AI-based software to automatically outline cancer areas and plan radiation beams to speed up treatment for cervical and head-and-neck cancers in LMICs.
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.