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Use, understanding, and perceptions of gut microbiome research and practices in oncology

Courtney B Cross1,2, Maya R Davies3,4, Elin Irestorm5,6

  • 1School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health, Adelaide University, Adelaide, Australia. courtney.cross@adelaide.edu.au.

Supportive Care in Cancer : Official Journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer
|August 12, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The gut microbiome is recognized for its role in cancer treatment. However, more resources and expertise are needed to translate this understanding into clinical practice, despite widespread interest among supportive care professionals.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Microbiome Research
  • Cancer Therapeutics

Background:

  • The gut microbiome's influence on cancer treatment efficacy and toxicity is increasingly acknowledged.
  • Translating microbiome research into clinical benefits is challenging due to inconsistent methods and potential research biases.
  • Understanding current practices and perceptions is crucial for advancing microbiome-based cancer care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize the current practices and perceptions of the gut microbiome within the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC).
  • To identify barriers and facilitators for integrating gut microbiome research and clinical applications in oncology.

Main Methods:

  • A mixed-methods survey was distributed to MASCC members in 2022.
  • The survey collected data on current research, clinical use, future plans, and perceptions of the gut microbiome in cancer care.
  • Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative responses underwent inductive thematic analysis.

Main Results:

  • A majority of respondents (83%) believe the gut microbiome is important in cancer.
  • 44.4% reported ongoing gut microbiome research or clinical practice, with 70.5% interested in developing such programs.
  • Qualitative analysis identified key themes including the state of evidence, perceived significance, uncertainty, aspirations, preferences, and critiques regarding microbiome research.

Conclusions:

  • There is broad agreement on the significance of the gut microbiome in cancer care.
  • Significant interest exists in leveraging the gut microbiome, but resource support (funding, infrastructure) and expertise are lacking.
  • High-quality trials are needed to generate evidence for implementing microbiome-based sampling or therapeutics in clinical practice.
Keywords:
Gut microbiomeMedical oncologyPediatric oncologySupportive oncology

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