Nutrition in Cancer: Evidence and Equality

Abstract: Poor nutrition is highly implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer and affects survival of patients during and after the completion of definitive therapies. Mechanistic evidence accumulated over the last century now firmly places dysregulated cellular energetics within the emerging hallmarks of cancer. Nutritional intervention studies often aim to either enhance treatment effect or treat nutritional deficiencies that portend poor prognoses. Patients living within food priority areas (FPAs) have a high risk of nutritional need and are more likely to develop comorbidities including diabetes, hypertension, renal disease and cardiovascular risk factors. Unfortunately, there is currently a paucity of data analyzing the impact of FPAs on cancer outcomes. Given the importance of nutrition as an emerging hallmark of cancer, further research must be aimed at directing the optimal nutrition strategy throughout oncologic treatments which includes the supplementation of nutritious foods to those who are otherwise unable to attain them.