Navigating nutrition while living with metastatic cancer: a qualitative study of patient experiences and needs

Purpose Adequate nutrition is essential during cancer treatment for maintaining strength, coping with symptoms and supporting quality of life. However, evidence-based guidance for patients with metastatic cancer is limited, and nutritional information provided in clinical practice is often inconsistent. The purpose of this study was to gain insight into the perceptions, wishes and needs regarding nutritional information among patients with metastatic cancer undergoing systemic treatment. Methods Qualitative, semi structured in-depth interviews were conducted with patients with metastatic cancer receiving systemic therapy. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically following Braun and Clarke’s approach. Results Twenty-four patients (median age 55 y; 15 M; 9 F) with various tumor types participated. Six themes were identified: the perceived impact of nutrition on cancer; perspectives on nutrition after diagnosis; the quest for nutrition: seeking and interpreting nutritional information; coping with nutrition-related challenges; the influence of the social environment; information wishes and needs. Patients described nutrition as meaningful in daily living with cancer but also experienced substantial uncertainty due to inconsistent or insufficient guidance. Conclusion Patients with metastatic cancer consider nutrition a meaningful part of living with cancer. Consistent, proactive, and individualized nutritional support, embedded within interdisciplinary care, may enhance patients’ confidence and well-being. Strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration and clarifying roles in nutritional counseling may reduce contradictory messages and support the provision of clear, reliable, and patient-centered nutritional guidance.