Can less radiation be just as good for HPV throat cancer?

NCT ID NCT05119036

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at whether giving less radiation after surgery for HPV-positive throat cancer can still prevent the cancer from coming back while causing fewer long-term side effects. About 83 adults with HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer will receive either a standard or reduced radiation dose to the surgical area. The goal is to see if the lower dose works as well as the usual treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

radiation therapy

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that a lower dose of radiation after surgery is just as effective as standard treatment, reducing long-term side effects for patients.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase study with only 83 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Reducing radiation might increase the risk of cancer returning.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

human papillomavirus-related squamous cell carcinoma oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • IU Health Joe and Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center

    Carmel, Indiana, 46032, United States

  • Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center

    Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202, United States