Abstract:
In this paper, the authors discuss the problem of malnutrition in cancer patients undergoing treatment and guidelines for solving nutritional problems after there are side effects from treatment. Most of the patients undergoing cancer treatment have nutrition problems as a side effect of the therapy resulting in reduced food intake. On the other hand, the body needs more food, especially protein that will be used to repair cells damaged by surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Malnutrition causes treatment failure, delays and increased costs of treatment. Therefore, nutritional solutions to cancer patients must be tailored to each patient's problem. For example, decrease immunity, neutropenia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, loss of taste and smell, trouble chewing or swallowing, constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, mouth sores and weight loss. In summary, the necessary nutritional solutions to meet treatment goals and quality of life are providing patients with adequate nutrition, especially proteins and energy.