Nutritional Intervention Plays Essential Role in Cancer Patients

Xiao-Tong Teong ； Yi-Chen Lee

《E-Da Medical Journal》 3卷4期 (2016/12) Pp. 22-27

https://doi.org/10.6966/EDMJ.201612_3(4).0004

摘要

This mini-review aims at highlighting the role of nutritional intervention in cancer patients. Malnutrition and weight loss are common and potentially lethal conditions in cancer patients. It is important to identify cancer patients at risk to minimize weight loss and prevent cancer cachexia development. Cancer cachexia is a multiorgan syndrome associated with multiple metabolic aberrations. Cancer treatment including surgical and chemo-radiotherapy may contribute to complications such as anorexia, dysphagia, and mucositis, leading to poor nutrient intake. Previous studies have shown that nutritional intervention plays a crucial role in improving the clinical outcomes, nutritional status and quality of life of this patient population. Early nutritional intervention is recommended for better survival, shortened hospital stay, and improved quality of life. Further studies are needed to gain deeper insight into the role of nutritional support and provide evidence-based recommendations regarding the use of immune-enhancing nutrient supplementation in cancer patients.

關鍵字

nutritional intervention ； nutritional screening ； cancer ； cachexia