Psychooncology. 2026 Sep;35(9):e70579. doi: 10.1002/pon.70579.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Oral and oropharyngeal cancer survivors experience debilitating physical and psychosocial challenges. Little knowledge exists on the efficacy of interventions to enhance self-efficacy in managing these challenges, increase survivorship preparedness, and improve health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
METHODS: Individuals (n = 643) diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer diagnosed within past 3 years were randomized to a digital intervention, Empowered Survivor (ES) or a Generic Online Intervention (GO). Primary (self-efficacy, preparedness, HRQoL) and secondary outcomes (self-care activities) were measured at Baseline, 2-months, and 6-months.
RESULTS: Participants assigned to ES reported greater self-efficacy and increased self-care activities of oral self-exams, swallowing, and mobility exercises than those assigned to GO (self-efficacy: 2 months, p = 0.003, 6-months, p < 0.001; self-care activities).
CONCLUSIONS: The ES enhanced self-efficacy and increased self-care activities. Further examinations of survivorship preparedness and HRQoL in oral and oropharyngeal cancer are warranted.
TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registered on clinicaltrials. gov as NCT04713449.
PMID:42655903 | DOI:10.1002/pon.70579
