The importance of nutrition therapy as a contributor to the success of cancer treatment

Abstract

Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. Although developments in early cancer detection and treatments led to improved survival, malnutrition remains to be a significant problem that may affect the response to treatments. Cancer patients remain to be at high risk for malnutrition secondary to local and systemic/metabolic effects of tumors and cancer treatments. The mechanism of cancer cachexia is multifactorial and includes inadequate nutritional intake and systemic inflammation that leads to a metabolic imbalance. Weight loss and cachexia are of prognostic significance and are closely linked to the quality of life. Since early detection and intervention lead to improved outcomes, screening and monitoring nutritional status are critical components of cancer care leading to adequate nutritional therapies. This review article aims to provide an overview of the mechanisms of malnutrition and cancer related cachexia and recent guidelines with the current evidence on the importance of nutrition therapy for cancer patients.