Ep. 222 Survivorship in Head and Neck Cancer with Dr. Michael Moore and Heather Starmer, PhD, CCC-SLP

What does it take to improve quality of life after head and neck cancer? In this episode of Backtable ENT, guests Dr. Heather Starmer, a speech and language pathologist at Stanford University, and Dr. Michael Moore, a head and neck cancer surgeon at Indiana University explore the topic of head and neck cancer survivorship.---SYNPOSISThe discussion centers on the multifaceted challenges faced by survivors, including dysphagia, dry mouth, chronic pain, and mental health issues. The experts emphasize the importance of early intervention, community support, and comprehensive care to enhance the quality of life for survivors. Various resources, such as the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance, are highlighted to assist patients and providers in navigating survivorship. The conversation also outlines future directions in research and the need for more qualitative studies to better understand long-term survivorship outcomes.---TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Introduction03:23 - Understanding Survivorship & Challenges in Head and Neck Cancer14:06 - Managing Mobility and Lymphedema18:47 - Addressing Chronic Pain and Mental Health21:37 - Dental Care and Trismus Therapy25:58 - Long-Term Survivorship and Quality of Life31:36 - Survivorship Clinics and Multidisciplinary Care34:39 - Resources for Patients and Providers38:49 - Future Research and Educational Gaps---RESOURCESDr. Heather Starmerhttps://med.stanford.edu/profiles/heather-starmerDr. Michael Moorehttps://iuhealth.org/find-providers/provider/michael-g-moore-md-64028