Prevalence of malnutrition, dietary trends, and oral nutritional supplements use among Algerian cancer outpatients undergoing chemotherapy

Objective

It is widely acknowledged that patients with cancer commonly experience malnutrition, and some individuals may adopt specific dietary trends. This study investigated the prevalence of malnutrition and dietary trends among Algerian cancer outpatients undergoing chemotherapy.

Material and methods

This cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted from January to October 2023 with 71 cancer outpatients undergoing chemotherapy. Malnutrition risk was evaluated using the Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST). The questionnaire also collected the occurrence of nutrition impact symptoms, the avoidance of specific food groups, and the use of oral nutritional supplements and dietary supplements.

Results

Malnutrition risk was identified in 57.7% (41 cases) of participants. Nutrition impact symptoms were reported by 59.2% (42 cases) of patients. A total of 36 of the patients (50.7%) altered their eating habits by avoiding at least one food group. Among malnourished cancer outpatients, only five used oral nutritional supplements. Dietary supplements were used by 23.9% (27/71) of the patients after cancer diagnosis.

Conclusion

Our findings underscore the necessity for a systematic malnutrition assessment in cancer patients. Qualified clinicians should provide nutritional awareness to enhance the quality of life for these patients.