Nutrition Rehabilitation Emerges as Potential Final Piece in Cancer Treatment Puzzle
Seoul, South Korea – August 31, 2025 – A growing consensus among researchers suggests that “nutrition rehabilitation” – a extensive approach to restoring nutritional status during and after cancer treatment - may be the critical missing link in improving patient outcomes and long-term survival. While advancements in surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy have dramatically increased cancer survival rates, experts now emphasize that addressing the debilitating nutritional consequences of these treatments is paramount.
Cancer and its therapies often lead to severe malnutrition, causing muscle loss, weakened immunity, and reduced quality of life. This malnutrition not only hinders treatment effectiveness but also increases the risk of complications and recurrence. A recent surge in research, spearheaded by institutions like the Korea Food Research Institute, is focused on personalized nutrition plans tailored to individual cancer types and treatment regimens, aiming to mitigate these effects and possibly unlock the final gains in the fight against cancer. The implications are significant for the estimated 10.2 million cancer deaths worldwide annually, and the millions more living with the long-term effects of treatment.
Hyo-Kyung Choi,Senior Research Institute of Korea Food Research Institute,is among the leading voices advocating for the integration of nutrition rehabilitation into standard cancer care. Researchers are investigating optimal protein intake, the role of specific micronutrients, and the timing of nutritional interventions to maximize benefits.