Food Insecurity Among People With Cancer: Nutritional Needs as an Essential Component of Care

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Social Determinants of Health

Background:

• Cancer diagnosis significantly impacts patients' lives, often leading to resource reallocation away from essential needs like food.
• Food insecurity affects an estimated 17% to 55% of the cancer patient population.
• Addressing food insecurity during cancer treatment is complex and requires comprehensive support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the issue of food insecurity within the context of cancer care.
• To examine current mitigation efforts and propose actionable recommendations.
• To advocate for reframing food access as an integral component of cancer treatment and long-term care.

Main Methods:

• Commentary analyzing the intersection of cancer care and food insecurity.
• Highlighting three existing programs addressing food insecurity in cancer patients.
• Applying the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine social care framework.

Main Results:

• Identified challenges in mitigating food insecurity across different phases of cancer treatment.
• Showcased successful interventions and their current impact.
• Provided recommendations for scaling and sustaining food insecurity programs.

Conclusions:

• Food insecurity is a critical issue in cancer care that requires strategic intervention.
• Integrating food access into cancer care plans can optimize patient outcomes.
• A multi-domain approach encompassing awareness, adjustment, assistance, alignment, and advocacy is essential for effective mitigation.