Iterative Patient Testing of a Stimuli-Responsive Swallowing Activity Sensor to Promote Extended User Engagement...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Oncology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Radiation-associated dysphagia can become permanent if not detected early.
• Epidermal strain/surface electromyography sensors can detect subtle swallowing muscle movement changes.
• Patient willingness to wear such sensors long-term post-radiation is unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess patient design preferences for a swallowing monitoring sensor.
• To identify perceived barriers to long-term sensor use after radiation therapy.
• To evaluate patient willingness to wear a prototype sensor for dysphagia monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Iterative assessment of patient preferences and barriers through questionnaires and user testing.
• Three studies involving head and neck cancer patients and survivors post-treatment.
• Evaluation of sensor design, comfort, ease of use, and haptic feedback.

Main Results:

• High willingness rates (71.4%–85.7%) to wear the sensor for up to 9 months post-radiation.
• Primary concerns included excessive wear duration, increased responsibility, and self-consciousness.
• Sensor's ability to detect dysphagia was the strongest driver of willingness; haptic feedback was well-received.

Conclusions:

• Patients and survivors are receptive to long-term use of personalized risk sensors.
• Willingness may be influenced by education and ethnicity.
• Addressing concerns about sensor burden and appearance is crucial for adoption.