Patients with cancer are at a high risk of weight loss and malnutrition due to factors such as anorexia and taste disorders. For these individuals, the community pharmacy they visit regularly may serve as an important resource for nutritional consultation. This study aimed to clarify the nutritional consultation needs of patients with cancer visiting community pharmacies and to examine both the necessity and content of such consultations. This study was conducted through a self-administered questionnaire survey among patients who visited 20 insurance pharmacies operated by the Miahelsa Corporation that accepted prescriptions for patients with cancer between May and June 2022. A total of 84 respondents provided valid responses. Results showed 98.8% of respondents felt that nutritional management during cancer treatment was important (answering “somewhat important” or “very important”). Furthermore, 23.2% of respondents reported experiencing a weight loss of ≥3 kg over a 3-month period, and 71.3% reported a decrease in food intake. Regarding the eight items of basic nutritional consultation unrelated to symptoms, 82.1% of respondents expressed a desire to consult about at least one item. The most frequently cited need was “a diet that prevents muscle loss and promotes muscle gain” (82.1%), followed by “how to evaluate one’s own nutritional status” (80.0%), and “advice on necessary nutrition and nutrient intake” (76.7%). These findings suggest that collaboration between pharmacists and dietitians working at community pharmacies to address patients’ nutritional needs, could play a crucial role in improving the quality of life and survival rates of patients with cancer.

In this study, we aimed to develop foods with antitumor and complementary effects against cisplatin (CDDP)-resistant bladder cancer. UMUC3, a human bladder cancer cell line was exposed to CDDP and cultured over a prolonged period to prepare UMUC3-CR, a CDDP-resistant subline. Androgen receptor mRNA expression was high in the UMUC3-CR subline. Genistein and vitamin C suppressed UMUC3-CR tumor growth. Additionally, the liberal intake of cheese in parental cell UMUC3-transplanted mice was associated with prolonged survival. Therefore, we created konjac jelly (KIK300) containing soy milk, cheese, and vitamin C as the main ingredients. Liberal administration of KIK300 to UMUC3-CR-transplanted mice suppressed tumor growth and reduced vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA expression. Furthermore, we observed no weight loss in the animals, their skin condition improved, and exercise capacity was improved. In conclusion, this study suggests that KIK300 may show antitumor and complementary effects on CDDP-resistant bladder cancer.

This study examined the content validity and issues in the program management of a comprehensive support program for cancer patients. The program included a seminar for patients, a newsletter, a support cafe, support group, a yoga and stretching class, and a hand and foot care class. Program evaluation was conducted three times (before program, During program: 6 months later, After program) using an original questionnaire, MAC, and FACIT-SP. Forty subjects were included in the study. Subjects responded that they were satisfied with the knowledge and information obtained through the program, as well as the personal connections established with medical personnel. The physical intervention portion of the program was positively evaluated, and the emotional and spiritual QOL of patients improved significantly after the program. These results suggest that the program effectively supports the active lives of cancer patients. Palliat Care Res 2011; 6(1): 201-208