Nutrition in Cancer Care: Closing the Gap Between Awareness and Action – European White Paper
This White Paper presents findings from a 2,505-patient survey across 12 European countries examining the prevalence, impact, and management of cancer-related malnutrition and cachexia. Results reveal critical gaps: 67% of respondents experienced significant weight loss during treatment, yet only 42% received any nutritional guidance from their healthcare team, and fewer than 30% were referred to dietitians or nutritionists. The document provides evidence that malnutrition worsens treatment tolerance, increases complications, and negatively impacts quality of life and survival outcomes. Building on patient testimony and clinical literature, the White Paper issues concrete policy recommendations to EU institutions and Member States: integrate medical nutrition into cancer care pathways as standard of care, mandate nutritional screening at diagnosis and throughout treatment, ensure dietitian access in all cancer centers, include nutrition in medical and nursing curricula, fund nutritional support products under national health systems, and establish EU-wide quality standards for nutritional oncology. Co-authored with input from patient advocates, oncology dietitians, and healthcare professionals.