A double blind, randomised, controlled trial with enteral nutrition enriched with omega-3 fatty acids is performed in stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, because of the immunomodulating, cardio protective and anticachectic effects of omega-3 fatty acids. The aim is to study the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on muscle strength, immune status, nutritional status, cancer cachexia, quality of life (QoL), physical activity level (PAL), postoperative complications and survival in stage III NSCLC patients undergoing chemo(radiation)therapy and lungresection. From the start of radiation therapy, patients in the intervention group (n=20) will receive 400 ml per day of an energy-dense, high protein nutritional supplement with omega-3 fatty acids (Prosure Ò) and patients in the control group (n=20) will receive a protein and energy enriched diet and 400 ml per day of an energy-dense, high protein nutritional supplement (Ensure Plus Ò). During the treatment period, measurements will be carried out every week.
Concerned persons: B.S van der Meij, J.A.E. Langius, M.A.E. van Bokhorst - de van der Schueren, A. Boonstra, E.F. Smit, M.A. Paul, professor P.A.M. van Leeuwen
E-mail: b.vandermeij@vumc.nl, ef.smit@vumc.nl, ma.paul@vumc.nl, pam.vanleeuwen@vumc.nl