Exploring the Role of Protein-Energy Nutritional Status in Morbidity and Recovery Among Pediatric Oncology Patients

A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Protein-energy malnutrition was a critical risk factor in pediatric oncology practice, affecting treatment tolerance and health status. Although widely acknowledged in the literature, under-nutrition has remained a serious problem, especially in economically underdeveloped areas, where the incidence rate reaches 95% in children with cancer. Therefore, the study aimed to qualitatively evaluate the effect of protein-energy nutritional status on morbidity and the healing process in pediatric oncology from the standpoint of caregivers' observations and clinic findings. A qualitative descriptive approach was utilized to combine clinical data and behavior-related evidence obtained internationally. It became evident that the problem was marked by a downward trend, with 55% of patients under-nourished at diagnosis and almost 60% experiencing the issue during treatment phases. The depletion had a high correlation with morbidity levels, including low health-related quality of life and treatment-related pain and nausea levels among the malnourished children. It is worth noting that treatment-based sensory changes have created difficulties for the caregivers, as the preference was shifted from normal nutrition to salty food. With the help of structured counseling sessions and culinary materials provided digitally, the under-nutrition rate decreased to 25% at the point of completing the treatment course.