Investigation of Pain and Symptom Burden in Patients With Newly Diagnosed Head and Neck Cancer

Investigation of Pain and Symptom Burden in Patients With Newly Diagnosed Head and Neck Cancer

RATIONALE: Collecting information by questionnaire about the quality of life of patients with head and neck cancer may help doctors learn more about the disease.

PURPOSE: This clinical trial is testing a questionnaire for assessing pain control, head and neck symptoms, and general symptoms of illness, demographics, moods, alcohol and tobacco history, and quality of life related to cancer in patients with newly diagnosed head and neck cancer.

OBJECTIVES:

• To pilot test a questionnaire measuring the collection of the following data from patients with newly diagnosed head and neck cancer: head and neck cancer-related symptoms, general demographics, pain control, general symptoms, mood, smoking and drinking history, and quality of life.
• To identify questions that may be unclear or difficult for patients to understand.
• To determine the time required for each patient to complete the questionnaire and assess the feasibility and burden to the patient.
• To determine the baseline incidence of symptoms and psychosocial issues in these patients.

OUTLINE: Patients complete a timed questionnaire comprising questions of head and neck symptoms, demographic information, pain control, symptom control, mood, smoking and drinking history, and anxiety and depression under the supervision of the investigator.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of head or neck carcinoma

  • Newly diagnosed disease

• Able to speak English

• Able to give informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

Not specified

PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY:

• Not specified