Abstract
<jats:p>Cancer is a consequence of genetic mutations which result in the production and proliferation of abnormal cells. This can occur when healthy cells are damaged and undergo replication that is outside the usual control. Staging enables the medical team to decide which treatment is required for the cancer. This chapter focuses on the stages of cancer development and cancer types. Patients diagnosed early have the best chance of curative treatment and long‐term survival. Risk of developing cancer depends on many factors including economic development, age, genetics and avoidable lifestyle factors. Treatment for cancer varies depending on tumour location, size, stage, grading and patients' performance status. Malnutrition is common in cancer patients, with up to 15–40% reporting weight loss at diagnosis. Cancer treatments can worsen malnutrition. The chapter also presents the examples of alternative and complementary dietary regimens.</jats:p>