Recognise, treat and manage

Cancer-related Malnutrition and Sarcopenia Implementation Toolkit

Practical resources, guidance and support for clinicians and health services from the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia.

Toolkit Purpose

In 2020 the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) published a position statement outlining the role of health professionals and health services in recognising and treating patients with cancer-related malnutrition and sarcopenia.

This toolkit provides practical resources and guidance to support the implementation of the COSA position statement recommendations on cancer-related malnutrition and sarcopenia, into clinical practice.

It is intended the toolkit will be used by clinicians and health services to educate and train clinicians, raise awareness, develop the services required and advocate for resources to support optimal management of cancer-related malnutrition and sarcopenia.

How to use the Toolkit

Screening

All people with cancer should be screened for malnutrition and sarcopenia with valid and reliable tools at diagnosis and as their clinical situation changes.

Assessment

People with cancer identified through screening as being high risk for malnutrition and/or sarcopenia should be comprehensively assessed.

Treatment

All people with cancer-related malnutrition and sarcopenia should have access to the core components of treatment.

Multidisciplinary Care

Multidisciplinary teams should work towards an individualised and coordinated approach to treating cancer-related malnutrition and sarcopenia.

Transitions of Care

Supporting the transition of care of people with cancer-related malnutrition and sarcopenia between care providers.

Tools and Tips

Putting all position statement recommendations into practice is a complex process requiring a coordinated effort from the multidisciplinary tearm