Early Detection of Malnutrition in Oncology Patients and People Over 65 Years of Age

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are conducting a national, prospective, multicenter observational study in the Czech Republic to evaluate early detection methods for malnutrition in oncology patients and hospitalized patients aged 65 years and older. The goal is to develop a standardized diagnostic process that improves quality of life and treatment effectiveness by enabling timely nutritional interventions for these patient groups. This pilot project will include about 1,500 oncology patients and 500 elderly patients. The study involves assessing participants using diagnostic tests such as blood tests measuring albumin, C-reactive protein, cholesterol, urea, creatinine, and vitamin D levels, as well as bioelectrical impedance analysis to evaluate body composition. Participants will also complete a nutritional risk assessment questionnaire focusing on weight loss, BMI, food tolerance, and cancer diagnosis with ongoing treatment. The project aims to establish a unified standard for nursing practice to identify malnutrition early and start appropriate nutritional support. Participants will be monitored through these assessments until March 31, 2026. Researchers will track the number of patients identified with malnutrition using the PSNPO questionnaire and the proportion who receive nutritional interventions. The study is supported by national and European funding, with the goal of improving care standards for oncology and elderly hospitalized patients by better managing malnutrition risks.

Early Detection of Malnutrition in Oncology Patients and Elderly Patients