Quality of life as an important goal of therapy for cancer patients on home enteral nutrition.

Nutritional support is increasingly recognized as an important component of multimodal cancer treatment. The number of cancer patients requiring home enteral nutrition (HEN) is increasing, particularly for head and neck (HNC) and upper gastrointestinal cancers. The quality of life (QoL) of these patients is emerging as a critical aspect that is influenced by the effective management of cancer-related symptoms, psychological support, and the socio-functional impact of HEN. Routine and standardized monitoring of QoL is highlighted as crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of HEN and for adapting treatment strategies. The interaction between nutritional status and other aspects of health such as physical functioning, psychological well-being, social engagement, and pain management is emphasized. Improving quality of life as a goal in palliative care should guide treatment strategies and the need for advanced nutritional support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]