Indonesian Journal of Cancer
Vol 17, No 3 (2023): September

Proactive versus Reactive Nutrition Therapy in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Treated with Chemoradiotherapy: A Case Series

Dian Araminta Ramadhania (Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia - dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta)
Diyah Eka Andayani (Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia - dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta)
Wina Sinaga (Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia - dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 Sep 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Malnutrition is frequently found in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients subjected to chemoradiotherapy. Furthermore, the condition can hinder therapy and increase patient mortality. Nutrition therapy may be given proactively and reactively before and during chemoradiotherapy, as a response to nutritional status deterioration. Early or proactive nutrition therapy is considered superior in minimizing weight loss and interruption days during chemoradiotherapy. Therefore, this study aims to explore the clinical impact of proactive and reactive nutrition therapies.Case Presentation: A total of 4 HNC patients were subjected to chemoradiotherapy and received nutrition therapy at different points. Approximately 2 patients received proactive nutrition therapy, while the other 2 underwent reactive nutrition after cancer treatment. Increased intake was achieved through administering oral nutrition supplements and supporting a nasogastric tube. Patients who received proactive nutrition therapy experienced less weight loss compared to reactive therapy. Delayed initiation of nutrition therapy resulted in a more pronounced weight loss. Therefore, it was crucial to maintain energy intake in line with established recommendations to effectively uphold the nutritional status of cancer patients.Conclusions: Proactive nutrition therapy should be provided to HNC patients before the commencement of cancer therapy.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ijoc

Publisher

Subject

Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology Immunology & microbiology Medicine & Pharmacology Public Health

Description

Indonesian Journal of Cancer is a peer-reviewed and open-access journal. This journal is published quarterly (in March, June, September, and December) by Dharmais Cancer Hospital - National Cancer Center. Submissions are reviewed under a broad scope of topics relevant to experimental and clinical ...