New Guidelines for Nutritional Treatment of Cancer Patients Published in 2025

In February 2025, Kanehara Publishing Co., Ltd. announced the release of the latest edition of the guide titled "Guidelines for Nutritional Treatment of Cancer Patients 2025", edited by the Japanese Society for Nutritional Therapeutics. This publication aims to improve the understanding and benefits of nutritional treatment among cancer patients and their families.

What is Patient Advocacy?

Patient advocacy refers to the activities aimed at addressing medical concerns from the patient's perspective, improving policies and systems accordingly. Historically, the focus was primarily on providing patients with information about diseases and treatment options. However, the landscape has shifted towards a collaborative model where academic societies and patients work together to shape healthcare systems. The value of patients' voices is increasingly recognized across various medical contexts, underscoring the importance of incorporating their needs and insights into the treatment process.

The Role of Nutrition in Cancer Care

Nutrition plays a crucial role in bolstering the physical strength of patients, enhancing treatment efficacy, and improving overall quality of life. This guidebook intends to outline the vital functions of nutrition during cancer treatment in an accessible manner, while also considering patient feedback to foster better nutritional care practices. It covers a wide range of topics, from nutrition for cancer prevention to nutritional strategies during treatment. For instance, it provides concrete explanations on how nutrition supports various cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy and surgery. Furthermore, it discusses the significance of nutritional care in palliative treatment, emphasizing its role in maintaining patients' quality of life even in challenging situations.

Press Seminar to Discuss the New Guidelines

To coincide with the release of the guidelines, a press seminar titled "Latest Insights on Nutritional Treatment for Cancer Patients" was held on May 14, 2025, at the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Esteemed speakers included Professor Naoki Hiki from Kitasato University School of Medicine, who heads the Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery Department, and Michio Inukai, Chief Physician at Okayama Saiseikai General Hospital's Department of Internal Medicine and Cancer Chemotherapy Center.

The seminar provided a platform for discussing the significance of nutritional treatment based on scientific evidence and the importance of capturing the patients’ voices when developing treatment guidelines. Professor Hiki highlighted how scientific advancements have clarified which nutrients and their intake levels can provide therapeutic benefits. He emphasized that nutritional treatment can help mitigate side effects and prevent complications in cancer therapies involving drug treatments and surgeries.

Survey Insights on Patient Concerns

During the seminar, Chief Physician Michio Inukai shared insights from a survey conducted with cancer patients, revealing their concerns and struggles during treatment. Notably, there was a significant response from younger patients dealing with breast cancer and blood cancers. Many indicated facing challenges related to rehabilitation, though issues concerning oral health were underreported. Nonetheless, Inukai pointed out that addressing appetite loss and taste impairments often linked to drug therapy can alleviate many patients' concerns, underscoring the interconnection between oral health, nutrition, and recovery.

The Importance of Nutritional Treatment

The guidelines reflect the pressing need for nutritional support during cancer treatment. For example, metrics indicating the severity of treatment side effects highlight the necessity for tailored nutritional interventions to improve patient outcomes. Contrary to the belief that cancer invariably leads to weight loss, maintaining proper weight is associated with enhanced quality of life and treatment success. The guide suggests that weight loss due to reasons like depression or nausea may be effectively addressed through nutritional interventions.

Guidelines Content and Focus Areas

The guidelines address various concerns raised by patients, from stress associated with inability to eat to coping strategies during chemotherapy and the paramount importance of dental care prior to the beginning of treatment. In addition, it emphasizes the need for balanced approaches that include nutrition, exercise, and social engagement to promote overall health in cancer patients. The authors hope this guide serves as a catalyst for patients to voice their concerns and thrive with better support throughout their treatment journey.

For further inquiries, please contact:
Kanehara Publishing Co., Ltd.
Guidelines for Nutritional Treatment of Cancer Patients Xx Department
Phone: 03-3811-7184
Website: Kanehara Publishing