Background: Malnutrition and cachexia, characterised in part by skeletal muscle atrophy, are common in patients with cancer. Preliminary evidence in other populations suggests that manipulation of protein, in particular the quality, type, distribution, and dose can influence skeletal muscle mass and thus functional capacity. While energy distribution and total protein intake has been explored in patients with cancer, little is known about the specific aspects of protein consumption. The purpose of this study was twofold: to assess the current dietary intake of cancer patients with a specific focus on energy, protein quality, type, distribution and dose; and to identify if there is an association between energy and protein indices and presenting body composition.
Methods: Patients with pancreatic, gastric, lung, colorectal, oesophageal or head and neck cancer were observed preceding treatment, with an accrual target of 82 participants. Dietary intake was determined using four day weighed food records, body composition was measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and resting energy expenditure via indirect calorimetry using the ventilated hood. Nutrition status was assessed via the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment tool, physical activity using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and performance status using Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group criteria.
Results: With data collection approaching completion, comprehensive results of this study will be presented with the aim of providing novel information on the pattern of ingested energy and protein intake and the association with body composition and metabolism.
Conclusion: The findings will form the basis for further research focused on determining the ideal pattern of protein intake required to preserve lean body mass. This is critical to advancing nutrition interventions in clinical practice with the aim of improving functional status and quality of life.