Table 2. Summary of the key points.

Past

-The pioneering research of Tannenbaum (1940) stressed the correlation between cancer and nutrition. Clinical evidence suggested the relationship between overweight, food intake, physical activity, and chronic disease. -In 1981, Doll and Peto published an important report on risk factors in cancer syndrome. This year is recognized as a starting point for research in the field of food-related diseases.

Present

-The cancer burden and the increase of the overweight have favoured the establishment of nutritional issue and the diffusion of healthy eating programmes aimed to prevent cancer. -To promote a better healthy eating programme, it is important to know the dietary assessment methods actually available and usable. -Scientific literature is focused on some tools and methods: FFQ, diet history, HEI, diaries, 24-hour dietary recalls, and fast dietary assessment method.

Future

-The main goal is to enhance a personalized nutrition method both in cancer and in healthy populations. -The use of a personalized approach requires adoption of methods and strategies tailored on individuals, taking into consideration specific demands, needs, and values, in addition to contextual factors and clinical activities. -Needs analysis is a milestone to achieve a tailored nutrition intervention. -Electronic and interactive (first-person) personal nutrition records must be developed in order to implement a true personalized approach.