Head and neck cancer care has changed dramatically over recent decades, with important implications for speech and language therapy. Shifts in disease patterns, alongside advances in surgery, radiotherapy and systemic treatments, have improved survival but created a growing population living with complex functional and psychosocial consequences.
This online lecture, delivered by Professor Jo Patterson, explored how rehabilitation has adapted and transformed in response to these changes. Drawing on clinical and research experience, it considered the evolving role of speech and language therapists across the head and neck cancer pathway — from early intervention and prehabilitation to long-term survivorship and the management of late effects. Emerging models of personalised, digitally enabled and equitable rehabilitation were discussed, alongside future directions for research and practice.
The lecture also reflected on clinical academic pathways for speech and language therapists. It highlighted how NIHR funding has supported the speaker’s career development and substantial research capacity build for our profession.
