Improving physical function in older cancer patients through nutrition before and after surgery
Official title: Preserving Physical Function in Older Adults with Cancer: Impact of an Optimizing Nutrition Intervention Applied Before and After Surgery
Funded at Durham VA Medical Center · NIH-10877741 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special nutrition plan can help older adults with cancer stay strong and healthy before and after surgery, making it easier for them to recover and feel better overall.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Durham VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX003981-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877741 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 60 years or more who are scheduled for surgical treatment of cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing surgery for cancer or are younger than 60 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how a specialized nutrition intervention can help older adults with cancer maintain their physical function before and after surgical treatment. It focuses on addressing common issues such as muscle loss, malnutrition, and inflammation that can occur in this population. By using a combination of nutrients that target multiple factors related to cancer cachexia, the study aims to enhance recovery and improve overall health outcomes for these patients. Participants will receive tailored nutritional support to help them regain strength and functionality during their recovery process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve recovery and quality of life for older adults undergoing cancer surgery.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with nutritional interventions in similar patient populations, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Durham VA Medical Center
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bales, Connie W — Durham VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Bales, Connie W
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.