Cancer / Oncology

Poor appetite and loss of weight are often experienced by people with cancer as well as other difficulties eating, like swallowing problems. Some of these problems may relate to the cancer itself, some relate to medications, the treatment and its side effects. Due to the body’s response to cancer the way the body uses nutrients is sometimes changed. Therefore, often people who are unwell may appear to be eating enough, but the body may not be able to absorb all the nutrients from food.

Some side effects of cancer therapy can affect eating habits: dietary problems already present may be aggravated; nausea and sickness can cause loss of appetite, and taste changes can make certain foods less appealing. As a result, patients with cancer may eat less and may have trouble eating enough of a wide variety of foods to satisfy nutritional needs.

Cancer treatment places a high demand on the body and so nutrition support may help to meet the body’s energy and nutrient requirements. Health professionals should watch out for the signs of weight loss and undernutrition and make sure that action is taken to ensure patients get the advice and nutrition support they need.