Improving physical function in older cancer patients through nutrition before and after surgery

Preserving Physical Function in Older Adults with Cancer: Impact of an Optimizing Nutrition Intervention Applied Before and After Surgery

NIH-funded research Durham VA Medical Center · NIH-10877741

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 typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDurham VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10877741 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 60 years or more who are scheduled for surgical treatment of cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery for cancer or are younger than 60 years may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Advanced Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.