Eating autonomy in final days: Terminally ill cancer patients’ experiences

Guojuan Chen, Yitao Wei, Jianwei Zheng, Zhenglong Lin, Hong Wu, Huimin Xiao, School of Nursing, Fujian Medical University, Department of Oncology, The Union Hospital Affiliated with Fujian Medical University, Department of Hospice Care, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Research Center for Nursing Humanity, Fujian Medical University

Nursing Ethics: An International Journal for Health Care Professionals

Published online on December 01, 2025

Abstract

Nursing Ethics, Volume 33, Issue 3, Page 781-792, May 2026.
BackgroundThe entitlements and rights related to eating for patients with terminal cancer have long been challenged, particularly as deteriorating health conditions may compromise their autonomy in food choices and dietary preparation. Their vulnerable ...