Malnutrition and Nutrition Impact Symptoms in Kuwaiti Colorectal Cancer Patients: Validation of PG-SGA Short Form

Background/Objectives: Malnutrition is a common but underrecognized complication in colorectal cancer (CRC), contributing to poor treatment outcomes and reduced quality of life. Regional data from the Gulf remains limited. This study assessed the prevalence of malnutrition and nutrition impact symptoms (NISs) among CRC patients in Kuwait. It evaluated the diagnostic performance of the PG-SGA Short Form (PG-SGA SF) in comparison to the full PG-SGA and the Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 65 CRC outpatients at the Kuwait Cancer Control Center. Nutritional status was assessed using the full PG-SGA, PG-SGA SF, and MST. Dietary intake, anthropometry, biochemical parameters, and NISs were collected. Logistic regression identified independent predictors of malnutrition, and the performance of the tool was evaluated using kappa statistics and diagnostic accuracy metrics. Results: Malnutrition (PG-SGA B/C) was identified in 61.4% of patients. Loss of appetite, dry mouth, and nausea were significantly associated with malnutrition (p < 0.00385); dry mouth independently predicted malnutrition (OR: 17.65, 95% CI: 2.02-154.19, p = 0.009). BMI was not predictive, but reduced mid-arm circumference was significantly associated. PG-SGA SF showed strong agreement with the full PG-SGA (κ = 0.75), with high sensitivity (87.2%) and specificity (88.5%), outperforming MST (κ = 0.38). Only 23.5% of moderately malnourished patients were referred to a dietitian. Conclusions: Malnutrition and NIS are highly prevalent among Kuwaiti CRC patients. PG-SGA SF is a valid and efficient screening tool that should replace MST in oncology settings. Symptom-informed screening and structured referral protocols are crucial for enhancing nutrition care.