Mumbai: In recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Cuddles Foundation released its latest report titled ‘FoodHealsTM: Exploring Nutritional Aspects of Childhood Cancer in India’. The report brings attention to the crucial role that nutrition plays in paediatric oncology care in India. It emphasises that malnutrition continues to be a significant barrier to effective treatment for childhood cancer, impacting the survival rates and quality of life for thousands of children.
In India, an estimated 76,000 children may develop cancer annually. According to this report, between 57 per cent and 61 per cent of children with cancer are undernourished at the time of initial nutrition consultation – a figure that has remained unchanged over the past three years. The nutritional deficit negatively affects their ability to tolerate cancer treatment, leading to increased complications and infections, ultimately compromising treatment outcomes.
Purnota Dutta Bahl, Founder and CEO, Cuddles Foundation states that with increased awareness, government and public support, nutrition can be one less worry for families battling cancer.
She said, “The findings of the Food Heals Report 2024 underscore a heartbreaking reality—malnutrition continues to be one of the greatest challenges in paediatric cancer care. We urgently need to address the shortage of specialised nutritionists, invest in training, and prioritise nutrition as an integral part of cancer care. Together, we can ensure that no child loses their battle because they lack proper nutrition.
Furthermore, the report highlights that 65 per cent of newly diagnosed paediatric cancer patients consume less than half of the daily calories and protein required for healthy development. Inadequate nutrition significantly reduces treatment tolerance, increases infection rates, and compromises growth and healing.
“Transforming the future of childhood cancer care starts with nutrition,” said Dr Manas Kalra, Senior Consultant, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi. “Nutritional care, often overlooked in paediatric oncology, is essential to improving treatment outcomes for these young patients. We must acknowledge that medical treatments work better when supported with the right food intake and ensure that nutritional support is embedded in every stage of cancer treatment, from diagnosis to recovery.”
The report also draws attention to a shortage of specialised nutritionists in hospitals across India. Currently, hospitals face a nutritionist-to-patient ratio of 1:54 in accredited cancer hospitals and an even more concerning ratio of 1:407 in non-accredited facilities. Immediate action is needed to increase investment in nutrition services, specialised training for nutritionists, and the integration of structured Nutrition Care Processes (NCP) in paediatric oncology care.
Personalised nutrition care is vital, as it significantly enhances recovery and improves long-term health. Targeted nutrition interventions should be a mandatory part of paediatric oncology care, ensuring that children battling cancer receive the comprehensive support they need. The report advocates for enhanced funding, specialised training, and the recruitment of more paediatric oncology nutritionists to meet the growing needs of children with cancer across India.
This report serves as a clarion call for a renewed focus on nutrition as a cornerstone of paediatric cancer treatment and recovery. With concerted effort and investment, the hope is that no child will face a compromised fight against cancer due to malnutrition.
Link for the Original article here.
Published by: ETHealthworld.com
