A Nutritional Management Algorithm in Older Patients With Locally Advanced Esophageal Cancer

A Nutritional Management Algorithm in Older Patients With Locally Advanced Esophageal Cancer

Patients with esophageal and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer often have weight loss, swallowing problems, and poor appetite. This may affect their ability to tolerate cancer treatment.

The purpose of this study is to see if the researchers can apply a set of nutrition guidelines designed specifically for patients with cancer who are older than 65 years of age. The questions will allow them to assess the nutritional status and make appropriate referrals. If the patients are having swallowing problems or losing weight, the researchers want to address the nutritional problems early in the course of their treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients must be ≥ age of 65; no maximum age limit.
• Patients who will receive induction chemotherapy followed by combined chemoradiotherapy at MSKCC for localized stage I-III esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer.
• Patients can receive chemoradiotherapy preoperatively prior to surgical resection or as definitive/primary chemoradiotherapy.
• Patients can be KPS ≥60, as long as primary provider feels that patient is candidate for combined modality chemoradiotherapy
• Be able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Enrolled on a phase I trial
• Patients with a feeding tube previously placed.
• Not English-speaking