Evaluating Taste and Smell Function and Food and Taste Preferences of Head and Neck Cancer Patients During Radiation Therapy/Chemotherapy

Evaluation of Chemosensory Function and Taste Preference of Head and Neck Cancer Patients Prior to, On Completion of and Six Weeks After Oncology Treatment

Changes to taste and smell have been reported in head and neck cancer patients who undergo radiation and chemotherapy. This may cause food to be unappealing and can lead to a reduced food intake. Thsi study will increase our understanding of taste and smell changes and how it relates to food and taste preferences.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years or older
• diagnosed with head and neck cancer including the lip, oral cavity, salivary glands, paranasal sinuses, oropharynx, hypopharynx, larynx and thyroid
• all histologic types of cancer
• all tumour stages according to American Joint Committee for Cancer (AJCC) Staging
• all forms of RT including standard or investigational and/or concurrent standard or investigational chemotherapy for head and neck cancers
• alert and mentally competent
• English speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

• unable to swallow
• unwilling to participate