Effects of high-protein supplementation during cancer therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract
Background: Establishing the effectiveness of high-protein supplementation in reducing cancer-related side effects is crucial.
Objective: The study aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of high-protein supplementation on clinical outcomes of patients undergoing cancer therapy.
Methods: Systematic searches were conducted on Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus from inception until July 2023. Randomized controlled trials administering supplements with ≥10 g protein/serving, given to 20+ adult patients undergoing cancer therapy were included. Random-effects meta-analyses were used to estimate the effects of high-protein supplementation on the primary outcomes of body weight and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We employed a vote-counting approach based on effect direction for secondary outcomes (that is, body composition, muscle function, hospitalization, response to cancer therapy/toxicity, survival, and systemic inflammation). Risk-of-bias (ROB) was assessed.
Results: Thirty-five studies involving 3701 patients with diverse cancer types were included. Patients who received high-protein supplementation lost less body weight than controls (mean difference = 1.45 kg; 95% CI: 0.42, 2.48 kg; P = 0.006; I2 = 80%). No differences in HRQoL were observed; all studies assessing HRQoL were rated as high ROB. A beneficial effect on muscle mass was found in 11 of 13…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 3,701 participants or records.
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