Malnutrition Risk Screening in Adult Oncology Outpatients

Publication Date: October 16, 2024
Last Updated: November 1, 2024

Summary of Recommendations

All patients should undergo malnutrition screening using a validated tool with a nutrition-specific follow-up plan for those at risk.
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Six tools - MNA, MST, MUST, NRS-2002, NUTRISCORE, and PG-SGA SF- with various cut-points demonstrated validity and are recommended in ambulatory settings.
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All patients with cancer should undergo routine malnutrition risk screenings using a valid tool after diagnosis and throughout treatment. Risk identification calls for a comprehensive nutrition assessment by a trained nutrition professional, such as a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN).
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Recommendation Grading

Disclaimer

The information in this patient summary should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.

Overview

Title

Malnutrition Risk Screening in Adult Oncology Outpatients

Authoring Organization

American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition

Publication Month/Year

October 16, 2024

Last Updated Month/Year

November 1, 2024

Document Type

Consensus

Country of Publication

US

Document Objectives

Malnutrition screening is not widely practiced in outpatient cancer centers. This review aims to determine the validity of malnutrition screening tools and provide recommendations for clinical use.

Target Patient Population

Adults patients with cancer being cared for in outpatient settings

Target Provider Population

Nutritionists and dietitians, oncologists, nurses, and other clinicians in outpatient settings caring for adults patients with cancer

PICO Questions

  1. Should clinicians screen for malnutrition in outpatient cancer centers?

  2. Which malnutrition screening tools are recommended in outpatient cancer centers?

  3. What are the recommended clinical applications for malnutrition risk screening among adult oncology outpatients?

Inclusion Criteria

Male, Female, Adult, Older adult

Health Care Settings

Ambulatory, Outpatient

Intended Users

Dietician nutritionist, nurse, nurse practitioner, physician, physician assistant

Scope

Assessment and screening

Diseases/Conditions (MeSH)

D044342 - Malnutrition

Keywords

malnutrition, Cancer patients, malnutrition screening

Source Citation

Trujillo EB, Kadakia KC, Thomson C, et al. Malnutrition risk screening in adult oncology outpatients: an ASPEN systematic review and clinical recommendations. J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2024; 1-21. doi:10.1002/jpen.2688