P023 - CHALLENGES IN NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT FOR BREAST CANCER PATIENTS IN JAPAN: INSIGHTS FROM A PILOT INTERVIEW STUDY

P023

CHALLENGES IN NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT FOR BREAST CANCER PATIENTS IN JAPAN: INSIGHTS FROM A PILOT INTERVIEW STUDY

K. Maki^1,*

¹Nurse Call Chiryu, Family Hospice Inc., Aichi, Japan

Rationale: Nutritional support is crucial for breast cancer patients, yet its effectiveness remains unclear. This study explores patient challenges and areas for improvement.

Methods: This pilot study interviewed three breast cancer patients treated at two large Japanese hospitals: a cancer specialty hospital (2 patients) and a designated cancer care hospital (1 patient). A semi-structured online questionnaire collected anonymized responses on dietary difficulties, appetite and taste changes, gastrointestinal symptoms, nutritional counseling, and support needs. Qualitative analysis identified key themes.

Results: All three patients underwent surgery; two received chemotherapy (including molecular-targeted therapy), and one had radiotherapy. All experienced dietary difficulties, including constipation (1 patient) and nausea or appetite loss (2 patients). Taste alterations occurred in two chemotherapy patients. Gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting, appetite loss, and constipation, were reported. Only one patient adjusted their diet by tracking symptoms.

None received nutritional counseling or dietary advice from healthcare professionals, nor did they receive multidisciplinary support. All found dietary information insufficient. Desired support included predictive information on treatment-related side effects, access to dietary consultation, and practical dietary strategies.

Conclusion: Nutritional counseling for breast cancer patients is inadequate, even in large hospitals. Patients need tailored dietary guidance and timely support. Future strategies should integrate proactive nutritional care and improve consultation accessibility. This pilot study underscores the need for patient-centered nutritional support and further research.

Disclosure of Interest: None declared