Nutritional status, dietary intake and physical activity in childhood cancer survivors

Abstract

Objectives: Nutrition related late effects are an important consideration in childhood cancer survivors (CCS). The aim of this study was to examine the nutritional status, dietary intake and physical activity levels of CCS. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 43 CCS (n=14 solid tumors). Measurements included body mass index (BMI), body cell mass index (BCMI) via measures of total body potassium, percent fat (%fat) via the Bodpod® and energy intake and Physical Activity Level (PAL) by three day diet and physical activity diaries. Results: The population had a mean (+/- SD) age of 14.6±3.7 years and a mean (+/- SD) time since active treatment of 9.7±3.0 years. The mean height, weight and BMI Z score fell within the range of 0.00±1.00. Based upon BMI, no patients were obese and two were classified as thin. However, when%fat was measured, 49% were considered obese (>20% males; >30% females) and when BCM was measured, 54% were considered to be malnourished (BCMI Z score <-2). Sixty-six percent of CCS consumed between 75-110% of estimated energy requirements. The mean (+/- SD) PAL of the group was 1.46±0.13 and 88% of the subjects were classified as having a sedentary/lightly active lifestyle (PAL<1.70). There was a positive relationship between BCMI Z score and PAL (r=0.34; p=0.03) and a negative relationship between%fat and PAL (r=-0.32; p=0.03). Conclusions: Malnutrition, both under and over nutrition, is a problem for CCS, which is under recognized by assessment of BMI. Childhood cancer survivors appear to have dietary intakes similar to the general population but have a sedentary lifestyle, with decreased BCMI and increased%fat related to decreased activity levels. It is recommended that physical activity interventions in combination with dietary guidance should be a focus both during and after cancer treatment to minimize the level of malnutrition seen in CCS.L716562812014-10-31 <br />