Somesthesia in Cancer Patients: Variability and Influence on Eating Experience

Launched by HOSPICES CIVILS DE LYON · Jan 27, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The SOMEST'ALIM2 clinical trial is studying how patients with different types of cancer experience food, especially when their senses may be altered due to treatment. The goal is to understand if enhanced versions of sweet and salty foods can help improve the eating experience for these patients, who often struggle with appetite and nutrition. The trial will involve patients aged 18 to 70 who have been receiving cancer treatment for at least two months and have specific types of cancer, like digestive, breast, gynecologic, or lung cancer.

Participants will undergo sensory tests and answer questions about their food preferences, oral health, and quality of life. They will taste different food samples and share how they feel about them on a scale. The trial will not include individuals with certain conditions, such as severe mouth inflammation or those who are pregnant. This study aims to find out how sensory changes affect food enjoyment, which is important for improving nutrition and overall well-being in cancer patients.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patient between 18 and 70 years old
• • Patient with digestive, breast, gynecologic, ENT or lung cancer
• • Patient receiving a cancer treatment from at least two months
• • Patient having given his free, informed and express written consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patient having a radiotherapy treatment for an ENT cancer
• • Patient with a known food allergy/intolerance to food samples (which may contain dairy products)
• • Patient unable to swallow soft food
• • Patient having presented nausea and vomiting during the last 24 hours
• • Patient with severe inflammation of the mouth or throat (ulcers, mucus)
• • Patient with cognitive disorders and memory loss
• • Pregnant women or breastfeeding
• • Adult under legal protection (guardianship)