Health behaviors among head and neck cancer survivors.

Purpose: To determine to what extent head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors participate in health behaviors (HBs) recommended by the National Cancer Center Network (NCCN®).

Methods: Participants identified through the tumor registries at the Abramson Cancer Center (ACC), University of Pennsylvania and affiliated sites. Eligibility: (a) diagnosis and treatment HNC; (b) aged 18 to 70 years; (c) ≥ 1-year post-diagnosis; (d) human papillomavirus (HPV) status confirmed; (e) ability to understand written English.

Patient Experience of Photobiomodulation Therapy in Head and Neck Chronic Lymphedema.

Lymphedema is a common late effect of head and neck cancer treatment that causes various symptoms, functional impairment, and poor quality of life. We completed a pilot, prospective, single-arm clinical trial to determine the feasibility and potential efficacy of the use of photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy for head and neck lymphedema. In this study, we report patients' perceived treatment experience of PBM therapy and provide suggestions to better understand head and neck cancer survivors' experience of PBM therapy.

Predictors of Nurse Practitioner Prescription of Opioids for Cancer Pain: Quantitative Results.

Background: Nurse practitioners (NPs) have assumed a greater role in the management of pain related to cancer. Several studies have associated adequate management of cancer pain with improved survival. Opioids are an essential treatment for cancer pain management and thus it is important to understand influences on prescribing these substances.

Conducting a supportive oncology clinical trial during the COVID-19 pandemic: challenges and strategies.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic resulted in severe interruptions to clinical research worldwide. This global public health crisis required investigators and researchers to rapidly develop and implement new strategies and solutions to mitigate its negative impact on the progress of clinical trials. In this paper, we describe the challenges, strategies, and lessons learned regarding the continuation of a supportive oncology clinical trial during the pandemic.

Photobiomodulation Therapy in Head and Neck Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Pilot Feasibility Study.

Purpose: Lymphedema is a common debilitating late effect among patients post-head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. Head and neck lymphedema was associated with symptom burden, functional impairment, and decreased quality of life. The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility and potential efficacy of the use of photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy for head and neck lymphedema, symptom burden, and neck range of motion among HNC survivors.