11/28/07

American Dietetic Association Publishes Evidence-based Nutrition Practice Guideline for Registered Dietitians on Oncology Nutrition

FOR RELEASE NOVEMBER 28, 2007

Media contact: Doris Acosta, Tom Ryan    
800/877-1600, ext. 4822, 4894     
media@eatright.org

CHICAGO – The American Dietetic Association has published a new evidence-based nutrition practice guideline for registered dietitians on nutrition therapy for cancer patients.

“A substantial amount of information and misinformation exists about the role of nutrition in the treatment of cancer,” said registered dietitian and ADA President Connie B. Diekman. “ADA’s new practice guideline will provide registered dietitians with valuable information they can use to give cancer patients clear guidance and reliable advice that is backed up by research.”

There is a wealth of evidence based on well-designed studies that medical nutrition therapy provided by a registered dietitian is an effective part of cancer treatment, including colorectal, esophageal, head and neck, hematological and small-cell lung cancer, according to ADA’s practice guideline. Though relatively little research has been conducted to evaluate the use of medical food supplements in cancer or symptom treatment, studies that have been conducted indicate some commonly used supplements may not offer substantial benefits, according to ADA’s guideline.

ADA’s oncology nutrition practice guidelines have been systematically developed by RDs who are experts in the field and by specialists trained in conducting and analyzing scientific research. The guideline is available on ADA’s online Evidence Analysis Library, which summarizes for registered dietitians the results of the best available research and offers recommendations for RDs to follow in their treatment of clients and patients.

For an executive summary of ADA’s Oncology Evidence-based Nutrition Practice Guideline, visit http://www.adaevidencelibrary.com/topic.cfm?cat=3250. For details on republishing information contained in the guideline, visit http://www.adaevidencelibrary.com/content.cfm?content_code=help:faq.
 
ADA earlier published evidence-based nutrition practice guidelines for registered dietitians on disorders of lipid metabolism, adult and pediatric weight management and critical illness.

Recommendations in the American Dietetic Association’s practice guidelines, as well as grades assigned to the strength of the scientific evidence used in supporting the recommendations, should not be interpreted as endorsements by the American Dietetic Association of any brand-name product or service. Consumers who want to know more about nutrition and health are encouraged to consult with a registered dietitian in their area.

With more than 67,000 members, the American Dietetic Association is the nation’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. ADA serves the public by promoting optimal nutrition, health and well-being. To locate a registered dietitian in your area, visit the American Dietetic Association at www.eatright.org.


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