Eating Experiences During Cancer Treatment in Adolescents and Young Adults: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Synthesis.
Marie Ernst Christensen, Rakel B Jónsdóttir, Sigrún Sunna Skúladóttir et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic literature review and qualitative meta-synthesis examined eating experiences and mealtime-related well-being among adolescents and young adults aged 15–39 receiving cancer treatment. Eighteen qualitative or mixed-method studies were included, representing 302 AYAs, 73 relatives, and 88 health care professionals. The synthesis identified a central theme of eating as both an embodied struggle and an act of agency, shaped by physical and sensory disruption, emotional and relational changes, and gaps in support. The authors developed 13 evidence-informed recommendations for clinical application.
Key findings
- The review included 18 studies representing 302 AYAs, 73 relatives, and 88 health care professionals.
- The core theme was eating as an embodied struggle and act of agency, with physical, emotional, relational, and support-related dimensions.
- Thirteen evidence-informed recommendations emphasized early nutritional screening, dietetic support, flexible meals, respectful family involvement, and psychosocially attuned care.
Why it matters
Eating difficulties during cancer treatment can involve more than nutrition, encompassing sensory and physical disruption, emotional distress, relationships, and access to support. Recognizing these interconnected experiences may help care teams respond in ways that respect young people’s agency and individual circumstances, while addressing eating-related quality of life.
What to keep in mind
The synthesis draws on qualitative and mixed-method studies, so it identifies experiences and informs recommendations but does not establish the effectiveness of specific interventions.