Studying how well head and neck cancer patients follow swallowing exercises after radiation

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study examines adherence to preventative swallowing exercises among participants with metastatic head and neck cancer. It utilizes blood tests to analyze cytokine levels and questionnaires to understand the factors influencing adherence to these exercises post-radiation therapy. The study aims to identify predictors of adherence, the role of illness perceptions, and the impact of social support on coping strategies. Participants will provide blood samples and complete questionnaires at specified intervals, with follow-up extending up to two years.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Are dispositioned to receive radiation with curative intent for nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal, laryngeal, or an unknown primary cancer with cervical metastases
* Are stage II-IVb for non- human papillomavirus (HPV)- related oropharyngeal cancer
* Have HPV- related oropharynx cancer that is T1, have nodal involvement with no distant metastasis or have HPV- related oropharynx cancer that is at least T2 with no distant metastasis
* Are stage II-IVb for laryngeal cancer
* Are stage I-IVb for hypopharyngeal
* Are stage I-IVb for nasopharyngeal cancer
* Have stage I-III unknown primary cancer with cervical

Exclusion Criteria:

* Have other cancer diagnoses, except non-melanoma skin cancer
* Had treatment for previous head and neck cancer or radiation to the head and neck
* Have a history of previous head and neck surgery (excluding biopsy and/or tonsillectomy and/or tracheotomy)
* Have a current oropharyngeal dysphagia unrelated to cancer diagnosis (e.g., dysphagia due to underlying neurogenic disorder)

Where it's running

• M D Anderson Cancer Center
  Houston, Texas, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Eileen H Shinn — M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

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Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.