Oral Health Promotion and Chronic Disease

The Support Needs and Treatment Experience of Head and Neck Cancer Patients: Quality of Life Implications - Queensland Health

Long Title: The support needs and treatment experience of head and neck cancer patients: quality of life implications

Study Type: Health research/Social science

Investigator: Associate Professor Camile Farah

Contact: Dr Martin Batstone - Martin_Batstone@health.qld.gov.au

Anticipated Start/Finish Dates: 1 November 2012/31 December 2014

Summary: Survivors and sufferers of head and neck cancer experience significant quality of life issues throughout the cancer journey. This project aims to add to the limited literature regarding the investigation of head and neck cancer patient's quality of life and support needs at periods such as diagnosis, through treatment and post treatment.

Data will be collected though semi-structured in-depth interview at three periods during their cancer experience: diagnosis, following treatment and six months post treatment. Responses will be analyzed thematically using Grounded Theory. Questions relate to participant's treatment experiences and support needs.