Web-based program to help head and neck cancer patients with swallowing exercises

Mobile Delivery of a Coping and Adherence Program for Head and Neck Cancer Patients Being Treated in Community Care Settings

PHASE2 · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center · NCT04003051

This study tests whether a web-based program can help head and neck cancer patients stick to their swallowing exercises during radiation therapy to improve their recovery.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorM.D. Anderson Cancer Center (other)
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations2 sites (Fort Worth, Texas and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04003051 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This phase II trial evaluates the effectiveness of a web-based program called Project Prepare in assisting patients with head and neck cancer to adhere to swallowing and trismus exercises during radiation therapy. The program provides video demonstrations, patient stories, and practical tips to enhance recovery and manage side effects. Participants will engage with the platform over a 10-week period, with follow-up assessments at six months to measure improvements in swallowing function and adherence to exercises. The initiative aims to support underserved populations lacking access to specialized care.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients receiving radiation treatment for throat cancer who can communicate in English or Spanish.

Not a fit: Patients not undergoing radiation therapy or those who cannot engage with the web-based platform may not benefit from this program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve swallowing function and quality of life for patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using digital platforms for patient education and adherence, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Receiving radiation treatment with curative intent for throat cancer
* Can read and speak English or Spanish well enough to answer our questionnaires and understand our website content.

Where this trial is running

Fort Worth, Texas and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Throat Carcinoma, Head and neck cancer, swallowing, trismus, adherence, coping, rural, website

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.