This clinical trial tests whether a peer support program is feasible for head and neck cancer patients. Social support at the time of diagnosis has been shown to improve head and neck cancer quality of life before and after treatment. However, not all patients have a strong social support system. Recent research has shown that peer support programs have the potential to address unmet social support needs among cancer patients. These programs involve cancer survivors (peer mentors) providing emotional and informational support to cancer patients (mentees) earlier in their disease course. Peer support programs may also reduce caregiver burden by providing an additional source of support for the patient. A one-on-one peer support program may be feasible for patients with head and neck and their caregivers.
MENTEE GROUP: Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document
MENTEE GROUP: Willingness to have mentor-mentee interactions with the mentor selected by Imerman Angels (documented as part of informed consent)
MENTEE GROUP: Age 18 or older at the time of consent (upper age limit 89)
MENTEE GROUP: Diagnosed with head & neck cancer (all stages) and planning to receive, currently receiving or recently completed (within 12 months) active treatment OR in follow-up and reporting unmet social/support needs
MENTEE GROUP: Mentee must not be regularly engaging in other support programs at the start of the study intervention
MENTEE GROUP: Undergoing active professional treatment for cognitive or emotional difficulties or neurological deficits that preclude adherence to the study protocol
MENTEE GROUP: Any other social, emotional, or personal situation that will preclude adherence to the study protocol, at the discretion of the investigator
CAREGIVER GROUP: Caregivers must not be regularly engaging in other support programs at the start of the study intervention
OHSU Knight Cancer Institute
Lead sponsor
Oregon Health and Science University
Collaborator