The relationship between nutrition and cancer is a dynamic field of research with substantial implications for clinical practice, public health policy, and individual well-being. As we continue to explore the profound interactions between dietary patterns and cancer pathways, it becomes increasingly evident that nutrition plays a pivotal role in both cancer prevention and treatment.

The importance of this area of study cannot be overstated. Significant advances in cancer epidemiology have elucidated how certain dietary patterns—rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—may reduce the risk of various cancers. Furthermore, the understanding of cancer-associated malnutrition has grown, demonstrating that inadequate nutritional support can exacerbate treatment side effects and diminish quality of life among cancer patients. Pioneering research into nutritional support strategies has fostered innovative care models, which integrate dietary management into standard oncology practices. Simultaneously, research investigating the relationship between dietary exposures, including ultra-processed foods, red and processed meat consumption, dietary quality, and nutrient intake, and cancer incidence has substantially advanced our understanding of modifiable cancer risk factors. These strides not only elevate the standard of care for patients but also emphasize the necessity of nutrition as a critical component of holistic cancer care.

Looking ahead, the potential advances in this research area are both exciting and essential. As personalized medicine continues to evolve, an enhanced understanding of individual nutritional needs based on genetic, metabolic, and microbiome profiles offers a promising avenue for tailored cancer interventions. Integrating technology, such as wearable health monitors and mobile health applications, could facilitate real-time dietary tracking and feedback for cancer patients, empowering them to take charge of their nutritional health.

Moreover, public health initiatives aimed at dietary education and access could catalyze community-wide efforts to promote cancer prevention through better nutrition. By addressing disparities in food availability and educating at-risk populations about the benefits of healthy eating, we can establish foundational changes that may significantly impact cancer incidence across diverse demographics.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Role of dietary patterns in cancer prevention
• Nutritional support in cancer treatment
• Cancer survivorship and nutrition
• Public health strategies for cancer-related nutrition
• Epidemiological studies of nutrition and cancer
• Malnutrition screening in oncology
• Impact of nutrient timing on cancer therapy outcomes
• Nutrition and dietary exposures as determinants of cancer risk
• Dietary factors and cancer etiology

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.

The relationship between diet quality and food security is a pivotal aspect of public health nutrition, with profound implications for individual and community well-being. Continued exploration in this area is essential in addressing endemic malnutrition and ensuring nutritional security for all populations. With substantial global challenges such as rising food insecurity and escalating rates of diet-related chronic diseases, advancing our understanding of these interconnected domains provides critical insights for creating effective, sustainable public health strategies.

Recent advances have addressed the complex interactions between food systems, socioeconomic determinants, and health outcomes. Studies have demonstrated that improved dietary diversity correlates strongly with better nutritional adequacy and reduced rates of micronutrient deficiencies. For instance, researchers have established that access to a variety of food groups significantly enhances the micronutrient profile of diets, reducing the risk of prevalent deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, emerging research has highlighted the impact of household food insecurity as a key determinant of diet quality; families experiencing food insecurity often resort to less nutritious, calorie-dense options, exacerbating issues of malnutrition.

Public health nutrition has made notable strides in identifying and addressing the diverse factors that contribute to food security challenges. In particular, the integration of behavioral and community-based approaches has yielded promising results in improving dietary practices among vulnerable populations. These advances have laid the groundwork for more targeted interventions, which have proven effective in managing the dual burden of malnutrition—both undernutrition and obesity—coexisting in many regions.

Looking ahead, the potential for future advances in this field is vast. Continuous research can provide insights into innovative food systems that promote both diet quality and food security, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The application of technology, such as data analytics and machine learning, may allow us to better understand patterns of food consumption and the socioeconomic factors impacting dietary choices. Additionally, interdisciplinary approaches that bring together specialists in nutrition, agriculture, and public policy will enhance our capacity to devise comprehensive strategies that strengthen food security while promoting healthy dietary practices.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Nutritional adequacy and health outcomes
• Socioeconomic determinants of diet quality
• Household food insecurity assessments
• Impacts of food systems on public health
• Strategies for enhancing dietary diversity
• Policy approaches to food security
• Interventions to combat micronutrient deficiencies
• Innovations in public health nutrition

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.