The nutrition experience of oncology patients in the palliative phase is highly individual and evolves throughout the course of advanced, non-curative disease. Specialist palliative care clinicians play a critical role in extending person-centred care, supporting patients as their physical, psychological, and social needs change over time. Nutrition care within this setting requires a multidisciplinary approach, recognising that no two patient journeys are the same and that their needs will vary greatly throughout their journey.
Oncology patients may experience a wide range of nutrition impact symptoms that can significantly affect their ability to eat, maintain nutritional status, and derive enjoyment from food. These challenges are influenced by disease progression, treatment-related side effects, personal beliefs, cultural practices, and previous experiences with food and eating. Importantly, nutritional concerns and priorities may shift as patients move through different stages of the palliative trajectory.
Early identification of nutrition-related issues, comprehensive assessment, and timely intervention are essential to providing meaningful and individualised support. By understanding each patient’s unique goals, preferences, and circumstances, clinicians can tailor nutrition strategies that optimise comfort, quality of life, and patient-centred outcomes.
This presentation highlights the importance of viewing every palliative care patient as an individual and adopting flexible, personalised nutrition care approaches. Through collaborative multidisciplinary practice, clinicians can better support patients and families, ensuring nutrition interventions remain aligned with changing needs and priorities throughout the palliative care journey.