An Investigation Into Taste Problems Associated With Xerostomia in Patients With Advanced Cancer
Taste problems and xerostomia (dry mouth) are common among patients with advanced cancer. These symptoms can affect the pleasure of eating and drinking, reduce dietary intake, cause low mood, and a lower quality of life. This study will explore the relationship between dry mouth and taste problems in patients with advanced cancer.
- EligibilityCriteria: Inclusion Criteria:  18 years of age Diagnosis of locally advanced or metastatic cancer Referred to palliative care/oncology services Dry mouth rated 'moderate' or worse over previous 2-week period Taste problems rated 'moderate' or worse over previous 2-week period Good understanding of English  Exclusion Criteria:  Cognitive impairment (unable to provide consent / complete questionnaire) Dry mouth precedes cancer diagnosis. Taste problems precedes cancer diagnosis. Head and neck surgery Head and neck radiotherapy Salivary gland disorders (e.g., Sjogren's Syndrome) In the 'Deteriorating' or 'Terminal' Phase of illness - HealthyVolunteers: No - Gender: All - MinimumAge: 18 Years - StdAgeList: Adult, Older Adult - StudyPopulation: Patients who are currently under the care of oncology or palliative care who have an incurable cancer. Patients will be identified by the clinical teams at the study sites, informed about the study, and (if interested in taking part in the study) referred to the research team.  Participants will be screened for inclusion by asking, "1. Over the last 2 weeks have you experienced having a dry mouth? 2. Over the past 2 weeks have you experienced taste problems?" If yes to either question, "How severe was it? (Options- Slight/Moderate/Severe/Very severe)". Patients must score as moderate/severe/very severe. - SamplingMethod: Non-Probability Sample