Heavy Strength Training in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors (NCT06289049) | Clinical Trial Compass
RecruitingPhase 2
Heavy Strength Training in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors
Canada60 participantsStarted 2025-02-17
Plain-language summary
Despite improvements in treatments, head and neck cancer survivors (HNCS) still endure acute and chronic side effects such as loss of muscular strength, limitations in physical functioning, fatigue, and swallowing difficulties that impact quality of life (QoL) and limit return to work. Light-to-moderate intensity strength training (LMST) has been shown to improve some side effects. Heavy lifting strength training (HLST) may further improve outcomes in some populations, however, only one small pilot study has focused on HNCS. The LIFTING 2 trial will be the first to examine the feasibility and effects of a HLST program versus no exercise in HNCS.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* males and females, 18 years of age and older
* any head and neck cancer subtype, stage, and treatment type
* at least 1-year posttreatment with adequate shoulder range of motion (must meet minimum cutpoints for active flexion and abduction to be eligible)
* no unmanaged medical conditions, alcohol, or drug abuse
* approved for exercise by oncologist and a certified exercise physiologist or kinesiologist
* ability to understand and communicate in English
Exclusion Criteria:
* has met the Canadian Physical Activity strength training guidelines within the past one-month: at least two days per week of muscle and bone strength training activities using major muscle groups
* currently involved in a different exercise trial or clinical drug trial
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Recruitment rate
Timeframe: Baseline, postintervention (12 weeks), and monitored throughout 12 week study period
2
Adherence to a heavy lifting strength training program
Timeframe: Baseline, postintervention (12 weeks), and monitored throughout 12 week study period
3
Completion of maximal strength testing
Timeframe: Baseline and postintervention (12 weeks)
4
Followup assessment rate
Timeframe: Postintervention (12 weeks)
5
Safety
Timeframe: Baseline, postintervention (12 weeks), and monitored throughout 12 week study period