Consumo alimentar, perfil nutricional e análise do apetite de pacientes em tratamento oncológico

Abstract

Cancer is characterized by a pathology of numerous causes, causing uncontrolled proliferation of cells that may or may not invade nearby tissues. Its presence affects the body, changing the nutritional and metabolic needs of the individual, which may reduce their appetite. Objective: To evaluate food intake and nutritional profile regarding appetite of cancer patients during chemotherapy treatment. Methodology: Descriptive, cross-sectional study with convenience sampling and quantitative approach, conducted with patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment of both sexes, who were interviewed to collect the 24-hour recall and to apply a validated questionnaire on appetite and symptoms. of cancer. Results: A sample of 51 patients, mostly female, represented by 56.9% and elderly, totaling 52.9%. The prevalence of cancer types was intestine and breast, being 35.3% and 25.5%, respectively. Regarding BMI, there was a predominance of 23.5% overweight in the elderly and 15.7% overweight in adults. The average calorie intake was 1586.46Kcal and the appetite rating resulted in moderate impairment. There were significant correlations between the mean of the questionnaire questions and the participants' BMI. Conclusions: The results showed a prevalence of overweight and the participants 'appetite was classified with moderate impairment, which may affect the patients' quality of life and nutritional status.