Patients treated for head and neck cancer may be able to join a research study at Ipswich Hospital offering more control over their care.
Patients who have had treatment for head and neck cancer have regular follow-up appointments for five years.
The PETNECK2 study enables patients to track their symptoms without the need for regular hospital trips.
During the first year after treatment, patients taking part in the research receive their regular check-ups. After a year, if the patient remains in remission, some patients will be randomised to have an education session on how to monitor their symptoms using a symptom checker tool in a paper booklet, web or mobile app.
If there is any change, or new symptoms develop, the patients will be able contact the clinical team to arrange a review appointment at any time. This is also known as PIFU (patient-initiated follow-up).
Mr Billy Wong
Mr Billy Wong is a consultant head and neck and thyroid surgeon at Ipswich Hospital, which is run by East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust. He’s also the principal investigator for the PETNECK2 study at Ipswich Hospital.
He said: “Head and neck cancer patients typically visit the hospital every few weeks for a period of five years following their treatment to undergo follow-up examinations. However, this may not be a feasible for some patients due to various factors such as time, work commitments, logistical challenges, geographical limitations, or financial constraints.
“This study therefore enables patients to take charge and personalise their own healthcare and follow-ups.
“Once enrolled into the study, the patients will be taught to monitor for changes in symptoms or new symptoms, such as new pain or a lump in the throat and neck. They will also be taught to access the research-based resources available in booklet and electronic formats to further consolidate this.
“Should the patients have any concerns at any point, they will be able to reach out to us directly and an appointment will be arranged.”
Cheryl Yildiz
The study is also being facilitated by Cheryl Yildiz, clinical nurse specialist for head and neck cancer patients at ESNEFT.
She said: “It’s exciting to be part of this research, that empowers patients to have the confidence to understand their new normal and when to highlight any concerns or symptoms, with a clear pathway for review if this is the case.”
ESNEFT was the bronze certificate winner in June was being on the top recruiting sites for the number of patients who joined the research study.
PETNECK2 is a national NIHR-funded study, supported by Cancer Research UK, and sponsored by the University of Birmingham.
Information about head and neck cancer is available on the NHS website.
Featured image: Freepik
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