NCT06722508 · University of California, Davis
Exercise and Nutritional Prehabilitation for Head and Neck Cancer Patients
What this study is about
This study examines the acceptability, feasibility, and safety in developing a prehabilitation program for head and neck cancer patients. The purpose of this research is to access the safety and acceptability of using a prehabilitation program before head and neck cancer surgery.
View original scientific description
This study examines the acceptability, feasibility, and safety in developing a prehabilitation program for head and neck cancer patients. The purpose of this research is to access the safety and acceptability of using a prehabilitation program before head and neck cancer surgery.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
exercise and nutritional prehabilitation
The study involves a behavioral intervention (exercise and nutritional prehabilitation) designed to assess outcomes related to feasibility, acceptability, and safety in head and neck cancer patients. Outcomes are being measured following the intervention over a defined period (from diagnosis through 1-month post-surgery).
Primary outcome measures
Completion Rate of 2-Week Prehabilitation Program
Time frame: 2 weeks
Percentage of participants who successfully complete the 2-week prehabilitation program for head and neck cancer patients.
Participant Safety During the 2-Week Program
Time frame: 2 weeks
Number of participants who experience adverse events during the 2-week prehabilitation program, assessed using CTCAE v5.0 criteria.
Acceptability of the Program
Time frame: 2 weeks
Number of participants who rate the prehabilitation program as acceptable, using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = Not Acceptable, 5 = Very Acceptable).
Feasibility of the Program
Time frame: 2 weeks
Percentage of planned exercise and nutrition activities completed by participants during the 2-week prehabilitation program.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- New head and neck cancer diagnosis Age \> 18
Exclusion criteria
- Prior treatment for head and neck cancer (surgery and/or radiation)
- Acute or unstable cardiac conditions (unstable angina or symptomatic severe aortic stenosis)
- American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status of 4 and 5
- Disabling orthopedic or neuromuscular disease
- Cardiac failure (New York Heart Association functional classes III and IV)
- Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- End-stage liver or kidney disease
- Inability to swallow and/or feeding tube dependence
- Any other comorbid medical, physical, and/or mental condition that contraindicates exercise or oral nutrition
- Adults unable to consent
- Age 17.99 or younger
- Prisoners, pregnant women, or other vulnerable population
Where
- Sacramento, California
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jan 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations