Ahead of World Cancer Day, Digestive Cancers Europe (DiCE) brought the patient voice to the European Parliament for an important discussion on “Nutrition and Cancer Care”. Hosted by MEP Michalis Hadjipantela and organised by CPE, the meeting placed a long-overlooked issue firmly on the policy agenda: the role of nutrition in improving cancer outcomes and quality of life.

Representing DiCE, Chair Dave Chuter and Patient Advisory Committee member Pamela Deasy shared powerful perspectives drawn from lived experience. Their message was clear. Across Europe, many people affected by cancer still receive little or no guidance on nutrition during treatment or recovery. Access to specialised nutritional support remains inconsistent, leaving patients to navigate complex challenges on their own.

Evidence increasingly shows that nutrition is not an optional add-on to oncology care. Appropriate nutritional assessment and intervention can help reduce complications, support treatment tolerance, and strengthen overall health system resilience. Despite this, cancer-related malnutrition continues to be under-recognised and under-treated.

The meeting aimed to raise awareness among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and patient advocates about the real burden of malnutrition in cancer care. Discussions highlighted the need for earlier screening, integrated nutritional pathways, and equitable access to dietetic support across Member States.

By sharing testimonies and practical insights, DiCE emphasised that person-centred cancer care must include nutrition as a core component, not an afterthought. Strengthening policy commitments in this area will be essential to ensure that every patient in Europe receives comprehensive, high-quality support throughout the cancer journey.

Author:

Ghislaine Gerbier