A national survey of oncology survivors examining nutrition attitudes, problems and behaviours, and access to dietetic care throughout the cancer journey

SummaryBackground Attitudes of cancer survivors to nutrition and care have rarely been captured. A better understanding their needs based on a review experiences would give voice this patient group (which has captured) allow for planning nutritional care. Aims To conduct national survey determine: (1) survivors' experience in relation diet-related problems, (2) perceived importance the role survivors, (3) accessing dietetic support, (4) sources where get information, (5) use alternative dietary strategies. Methods Survivors (any adult ever diagnosed with cancer) who had or treated Ireland within past 5 years, were asked complete 25-item paper-based at one 20 different hospital sites Ireland. The was also hosted online websites major charities. Descriptive statistics used examine quantitative data. Results In total, 1073 valid responses received (63% female, mean age 57 years (range 18–88)). Breast most common (n = 362), followed by colorectal 121). One third respondents metastatic disease. Diet-related problems reported 45%. Weight loss experienced 44% amongst those, 42% they ‘unhappy worried' this, while 27% reportedbeing ‘delighted/happy' weight loss. Muscle noted 52%, 20% reporting noticed ‘a lot' muscle Nutrition rated as ‘very/extremely' important 89% respondents, yet 58% being about issues medical team only ‘sometimes', ‘rarely' ‘never'. Only 39% assessed/treated registered dietitian (RD) 74% advice/care helpful. Worryingly, involuntary loss, 29% texture modified diet not from an RD. Overall, 57% those did see RD said wanted more support (access helpline/dietitian/additional reliable information). Of concern, 37% following tried alternative, unproven strategies (e.g. restrictive diets, herbal remedies, juicing detoxes), 32% avoiding specific foods, e.g. processed meat dairy. majority (56%) felt confused often conflicting information available media offered people around them. Conclusions While is considered highly high proportion potentially serious including fewer than half surveyed access dietitian. Over least strategy, over nutrition. Comprehensive screening referral programmes oncology dietitians need be implemented ambulatory setting order identify facilitate early management concerns survivors.