In 2024, the American Cancer Society reported over two million new cancer diagnoses. The effectiveness of cancer treatments is influenced by various factors, including the type and severity of the disease, as well as the patient's socioeconomic status. This status plays a critical role in determining access to proper nutrition, which is vital for better treatment outcomes. Dr. Anthony Sung from the University of Kansas Cancer Center highlights the challenges faced by patients who struggle with side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, compounded by difficulties affording nutritious food. Poor nutrition can lead to malnutrition and poor health outcomes.

Details of the NOURISH Initiative

In a significant step towards addressing these issues, a multicenter trial named NOURISH (Nutrition Outreach in Systems of Healthcare) has been launched. Funded by a nearly $4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health, this five-year study aims to combat food insecurity among individuals undergoing transplant or cellular therapy (TCT) for blood cancers. Participating institutions include Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Duke University, and Stanford University.

TCT patients often face severe side effects that exacerbate their nutritional challenges. Many require temporary relocation near specialized cancer centers, isolating them from usual support networks. NOURISH will provide nutritious food bags directly to food-insecure TCT patients during clinic visits. These bags, prepared in collaboration with local food banks, will contain whole grains, proteins, healthy fats, and shelf-stable items. Participants will also receive recipes and cooking demonstration videos to help them prepare these meals.

The trial, led by Dr. Sung and Dr. Anna Arthur, an assistant professor at the KU School of Health Professions, will assess participants' nutritional status before, during, and after TCT treatment. Researchers hypothesize that those receiving food bags will experience less malnutrition compared to the control group. Additionally, they aim to evaluate the impact on other clinical outcomes such as mental health and hospitalizations. By potentially reducing the need for intravenous nutrition, NOURISH may also lower healthcare costs, providing incentives for continued partnerships between food banks and cancer centers.

From a journalist’s perspective, this initiative underscores the importance of holistic care in cancer treatment. Addressing food insecurity is not just about improving physical health; it's about ensuring that all patients have equitable access to supportive resources. The success of NOURISH could pave the way for broader applications, ultimately benefiting a wider range of cancer patients and demonstrating the power of integrated healthcare solutions.