The Role of Dietary Fiber in Mitigating Sarcopenia Risk in Head and Neck Cancer

Recruiting now

Conditions studied: Head and Neck Cancers

In brief

Emerging data suggest consumption of dietary fiber before and during cancer treatment may improve prognosis for patients with head and neck cancer, in part via increased production of short chain fatty acids, systemic anti-inflammatory effects, and decreased risk of sarcopenia. Foods rich in dietary fiber are often low in calories and protein, thus are not typically targeted in current treatment paradigms that focus on countering the catabolic state associated with sarcopenia. This project entails an observational, mixed methods study to: observe dietary fiber intake in patients with head and neck cancer from time of diagnosis for six months; elucidate the relationship between dietary fiber intake, short chain fatty acids, inflammatory markers, and sarcopenia; and explore the feasibility of and patient perceptions regarding promoting dietary fiber as part of their treatment approaches.

Key facts

Study ID

NCT07622914

Run by

University of Oklahoma

People needed

59

Starts

2025-10-31

Expected to finish

2027-06-30

Last updated by the study team

2026-06-03

Who can join

Age: 18 and older. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: not accepted.

You may qualify if…

• ≥18 years of age
• Newly diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the: paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, oral cavity, tongue, larynx, pharynx [i.e., nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx]
• Meeting at least 60% of baseline energy needs
• Willingness to provide data prior to treatment
• Access to the internet
• Access to a home freezer
• Ability to do remote interview
• Access to a phone
• Willingness to avoid pre-, pro-, or synbiotics

You may not qualify if…

• Previously diagnosed or positive screen for a GI-related condition or eating disorder
• Able to complete bioelectrical impedance (stand unsupported, no pacemaker or limb amputation) and Timed Chair Stands
• Currently pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
• Current or past 3-month antibiotic use

Where it is running

• Stephenson Cancer Center — Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States (enrolling)

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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