Development and validation of a tool to assess taste problems in advanced cancer patients
The Development and Validation of a Novel Tool for the Assessment of Taste Disturbances in Patients With Advanced Cancer: Taste Questionnaire in Palliative Care
Our Lady's Hospice and Care Services · NCT06588933
This study is trying to create a new questionnaire to help understand and measure taste problems in people with advanced cancer to improve their care and treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Our Lady's Hospice and Care Services (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Dublin) |
| Trial ID | NCT06588933 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to develop and validate a novel assessment tool specifically designed to evaluate taste disturbances and their impact on patients with advanced cancer. Given the high prevalence of taste problems among this population, which can significantly affect their quality of life, the study will involve patients completing a questionnaire to gather data on their experiences. The findings will help create a standardized tool that can assess not only the presence of taste disturbances but also the effectiveness of treatments aimed at alleviating these symptoms. This initiative addresses a critical gap in the current understanding and management of taste-related issues in cancer care.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older with locally advanced or metastatic cancer who are experiencing moderate to severe taste problems.
Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments, those whose taste problems preceded their cancer diagnosis, or those in the terminal phase of illness may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this tool could enhance the quality of life for patients by providing better assessment and management of taste disturbances.
How similar studies have performed: While there is a recognized need for such assessment tools, this specific approach appears to be novel and untested in the context of advanced cancer patients.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 18 years of age Diagnosis of locally advanced or metastatic cancer Referred to palliative care/oncology services Taste problems rated 'moderate' or worse over previous 2-week period Good understanding of English Exclusion Criteria: Cognitive impairment (unable to provide consent / complete questionnaire) Taste problems precedes cancer diagnosis. Head and neck surgery Head and neck radiotherapy Salivary gland disorders (e.g., Sjogren's Syndrome) In the 'Deteriorating' or 'Terminal' Phase of illness
Where this trial is running
Dublin
- Our Lady's Hospice & Care Services — Dublin, Ireland (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Andrew Davies, FRCP — Our Lady's Hospice and Care Services
- Study coordinator: Andrew Davies, FRCP
- Email: andavies@tcd.ie
- Phone: 014986235
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Altered Taste, neoplasm