Prospective Evaluation of Frailty in Patients With Head and Neck Tumors Before Curative Intended Therapy

In this prospective study patients with a tumor of the head and neck region, that are planned for Surgery or radiotherapy (chemotherapy) will be included. The probability of developing therapy-associated side effects is significantly increased if the patient is already in a limited general condition, also known as fragility, before the therapy. In addition, due to demographic change, the incidence of head and neck tumors will continue to increase, especially in patients of advanced age. Due to their age, other pre-existing conditions and infirmity, they are at a further increased risk of therapy-related side effects In order to improve the care of patients with head and neck tumors, we must first determine how many patients are affected by fragility. In addition, we want to determine influencing factors that are associated with fragility. These include, for example, difficulty swallowing and weight loss. Based on this data, we will then plan the implementation of an intervention study to establish a prehabilitation program.

Inclusion criteria

• Indication for curative therapy in the case of an initial diagnosis of head and neck tumor disease
• Capacity to consent
• At least 18 years of age
• Sufficient knowledge of the German language

Exclusion criteria

• - Lack of capacity to consent
• Age <18 years
• Severe impairment of walking ability that makes it impossible to perform the 6MWT safely

Contraindications for performing a 6MWT:

Absolute contraindications* for the procedure are

• unstable angina pectoris
• myocardial infarction in the past month.

Relative contraindications are

• a resting heart rate > 120/min
• systolic blood pressure > 180 mmHg
• a diastolic blood pressure > 100 mmHg.