Heavy Strength Training in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors

Despite improvements in treatments, head and neck cancer survivors (HNCS) still endure acute and chronic side effects such as loss of muscular strength, limitations in physical functioning, fatigue, and swallowing difficulties that impact quality of life (QoL) and limit return to work. Light-to-moderate intensity strength training (LMST) has been shown to improve some side effects. Heavy lifting strength training (HLST) may further improve outcomes in some populations, however, only one small pilot study has focused on HNCS. The LIFTING 2 trial will be the first to examine the feasibility and effects of a HLST program versus no exercise in HNCS.

NCT Number	NCT06289049
Lead Sponsor	University of Alberta
Conditions	Head and Neck Neoplasms, Head and Neck Cancer, Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Head and Neck Carcinoma
Enrollment	37 participants
Start Date	2025-02-17
Primary Completion	2026-07-06 (estimated)
Study Completion	2026-07-06 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-08-12