More nutrition support needed for cancer patients in NZ

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2022-02-04 00:01

New Zealand

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Researchers surveyed healthcare practitioners and support workers online for their thoughts on where nutrition support stands within New Zealand oncology care. Most thought nutrition was very important in the recovery of cancer patients, but such support was not widely available in oncology practices and support services. Those who worked in larger DHBs were more likely to be able to refer patients to a dietician, while some in smaller health boards said they had limited or even no ability to do so. The research team says lack of access to this information and support is likely to have a negative impact on cancer outcomes and add to inequities in cancer outcomes.