Modeling Adherence to Preventive Swallowing Exercises in Head and Neck Cancer
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Summary
This trial uses blood tests and questionnaires to study how well participants with head and neck cancer that has spread to other places in the body adhere to swallowing exercises to prevent future disease. Using blood tests to study cytokines (proteins related to the immune system) may help doctors learn if certain levels of cytokines affect whether or not side effects occur and if they put participants at risk for future disease. Questionnaires may help doctors learn about the reasons head and neck cancer participants may or may not follow the swallowing exercises that they are asked to perform after receiving radiation treatments.
Description
PRIMARY OBJECTIVES: I. To determine whether illness perceptions significantly predict adherence to swallowing exercises at 6 months after the end of radiation. II. To determine whether sickness behaviors (depression, fatigue, pain)'s effect on illness perceptions are mediated by pro-inflammatory cytokines. III. To determine whether social support moderates the impact of coping on appraisal of coping. SECONDARY OBJECTIVES: I. As a secondary aim, to determine the feasibility and utility of cardiac impedance pre-ejection period measurement as a corollary measure for depression and distress.…