How do patients adjust to head and neck cancer?
Research type
Research Study
Full title
How do patients adjust psychologically to the experience of head and neck cancer?
IRAS ID
216710
Contact name
Thomas Schröder
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Nottingham
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 23 days
Research summary
Unique difficulties and challenges are associated with head and neck cancer due to the anatomical structures they involve - often significantly impacting upon fundamental abilities such as breathing, speaking, swallowing, tasting and smelling. Treatment relies strongly on surgical intervention and/or radiotherapy, the results of which are likely to have further detrimental effects on the structures responsible for such intrinsic functions. Psychosocial challenges include adjustment to changes in appearance, verbal communication, eating and drinking, employment, sexuality, and psychological functioning including depression, anxiety and fear of recurrence. Individual experiences of head and neck cancer have been documented, however there is a paucity of literature regarding adjustment to such threat on functional integrity.
The purpose of this study is to develop a psychological understanding and theory of adjustment to head and neck cancer, including both visible and functional changes. This model will potentially provide a framework for Clinical Psychologists to use within assessment, formulation and intervention; identifying areas for psychological work to be targeted in order to improve psychological well-being and reduce emotional distress. It is hoped that this study may provide a basis upon which further research can be developed in understanding and supporting individuals who have experienced head and neck cancer from a psychological standpoint.
The study will be of a qualitative design, using a semi-structured interviews with 6-15 participants who have had an occurrence of head and neck cancer. Prior to data collection with participants, a pilot interview will be conducted with a Clinical Psychologist working within the field. Interviews will be conducted within a private room at the University of Nottingham, an NHS site, at their home, or via the telephone, whichever is most convenient for the participant. The interviews will be tape recorded, transcribed and analysed through a grounded theory approach. Participants will be expected to participate in at least one 60 minute semi structured interview with the researcher (this may be up to two interviews).
REC name
East Midlands - Nottingham 1 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/EM/0226
Date of REC Opinion
19 Jul 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion