American Head and Neck International Conference

Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville TN

Investigators

Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract The 11th International Conference on Head and Neck Cancer to be held July 8-12, 2023, in Montreal, Canada, is designed to facilitate discussion among practitioners, trainees, and researchers with an emphasis on how collaborative, multidisciplinary treatment and rehabilitation can lead to the best oncologic, functional, and quality of life outcomes for head and neck cancer patients. The American Head and Neck Society sponsors this meeting, which occurs every three years and attracts well over 1500 attendees representing the disciplines of medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology, and head and neck surgery, to ensure educational interactions within and between specialties that can strengthen multidisciplinary collaborative relationships. Objectives for the meeting include i) to further understanding and to identify gaps in our understanding of head and neck cancer care, and foster research in those areas within and between the multiple disciplines represented; ii) to recognize the important role of nurses, speech pathologists, audiologists, nutritionists, social workers, pain specialists, mental health practitioners, physical therapists, and dental oncologists in achieving maximal functional outcomes, and in proper functional assessment and reporting of functional results of new treatment programs; and iii) to provide familiarity with emerging research breakthroughs that are helping us to better understand the pathogenesis and treatment of head and neck cancer. Funds are requested in this application in order to improve access to the conference for trainees and young families through (1) Trainee travel awards for students, residents, clinical fellows, and postdoctoral fellows, with a particular focus on supporting underrepresented minority attendees, and (2) Providing childcare at the meeting to reduce barriers to attendance for working parents. This support will enhance conference participation by diverse groups of trainees, clinicians, and researchers, giving them the opportunity to present their research, develop collaborations, and interact with experts in the field.