Although many major cancer centers have onsite-registered dietitians to provide patients with nutritional guidance while undergoing treatment and during survivorship, an estimated 64% of patients with cancer use the Internet to find nutritional advice.1 These websites can help provide patients with accurate nutritional information:
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (eatright.org):Formerly the American Dietetic Association, this site includes a “Find a Registered Dietitian” search feature and food and nutrition topics, including how to eat a healthy diet on a tight budget and how to read package nutrition labels.
American Cancer Society (cancer.org): Topics include nutritional guidance for both adults and children undergoing cancer treatment, information on physical activity and dietary supplements, and free online interactive programs focusing on nutrition, treatment side-effect management, and recovery.
American Society of Clinical Oncology (cancer.net): ASCO’s site provides nutrition recommendations for patients with cancer during and after treatment, tips on managing a healthy weight, information on food safety, and how to maintain nutritional intake while overcoming treatment side effects.
National Cancer Institute (cancer.gov): This website provides a comprehensive book, Coping with Cancer: Supportive and Palliative Care, which includes information on the dietary needs of patients with cancer, how feelings can affect appetite during cancer treatment, and how to manage eating problems. ■
Reference
1. Huang GJ, Penson DF: Internet health resources and the cancer patient. Cancer Investigation 26:202-207, 2008.
