Improved Oral Health for Head and Neck Cancer Survivors
Official title: Improved Oral Health in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors
Run by Uppsala University · NCT07173270 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Aiming to see if a structured oral care program helps head and neck cancer survivors keep their mouths healthier and feel better after treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 300 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Uppsala University Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Uppsala) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 25, 2025 |
| Main results expected | May 31, 2035 |
| Study ends | September 23, 2045 |
| Registry record updated | September 3, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07173270 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults (≥18) with head and neck cancer planned for curative treatment (radiation therapy or chemoradiation, with or without surgery).
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe alcohol use, cognitive impairment, or inability to understand Swedish may not benefit from the intervention.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This multicenter randomized controlled trial tests whether an ongoing oral care program, delivered quarterly for three years starting six months after cancer treatment, can prevent or lessen late oral side effects in head and neck cancer survivors. The study compares the oral health intervention to standard care and tracks oral health, nutrition, quality of life, work ability, psychological well-being, and health costs. Data are collected through patient-reported outcomes, clinical dental assessments, and biological samples to understand the program’s impact. The trial is conducted across five Swedish regions, led by Uppsala University, with collaboration from regional health authorities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants could experience better oral health, improved quality of life, and possibly easier return to work.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research supports the benefit of structured dental care for cancer survivors, but this specific multicenter oral care program in head and neck cancer survivors is being tested for its added value and cost-effectiveness.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * patients (≥ 18 years) * diagnosed with HNC * scheduled for treatment with curative intent, including RT or CRT with or without surgery Exclusion Criteria: * severe alcoholism * cognitive impairment * inability to understand the Swedish language
Where it's running
-
Uppsala University
Uppsala, Sweden Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ylva Tiblom Ehrsson, Assoc professor, RN
- Email: ylva.tiblom.ehrsson@uu.se
- Phone: +46707747712
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.