Background: Nutrition is critical in the management of cancer. Among patients with cancer, it is of utmost importance to identify clinical findings such as malnutrition, sarcopenia, impaired physical function, or cachexia, which may negatively impact treatment tolerance, quality of life, and survival. Experts agree on the importance of early identification of patients at risk of malnutrition or muscle loss, and recent international guidelines advocate for incorporating nutritional screening, assessment, treatment, and monitoring as integral components of cancer care. Objectives: With this article, we propose a standardized approach to nutritional diagnosis, referral for nutritional intervention, and monitoring, in a comprehensive manner adapted to various clinical scenarios. Methods: This approach should be multidisciplinary throughout the cancer patient’s journey to ensure continuity of care and optimal outcomes. Results and Conclusion: It is recommended that physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dietitians/nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals working in oncology remain vigilant for signs and symptoms of nutritional impact.
Keywords: Malnutrition. Muscle depletion. Muscle function. Nutritional risk. Nutritional care process. Cancer. Oncology.
