Namratha Pai Kotebagilu

Malnutrition is one of the most important nutritional issues that can arise during cancer treatment and it is common among patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). The anatomic site of tumor can significantly affect deglutition and mastication which are the major causes of malnutrition apart from cachexia. The objective of this research work was to study the socio-demographic and nutritional status of patients with HNC. A pilot study was undertaken in patients diagnosed with HNC (n=50), attending cancer care specialty hospital, Mysuru, India. From the results, it was observed that the mean BMI of the patients (18.63±3.56 kg/cm2 in men, 21.06±4.69 kg/cm2 in women) was normal. The subjects had MUAC values lower than the standard value indicating a nutritional risk if not given attention (Men-25.12±2.47, Women-24.21±4.24). The TSF values were lower (Men – 7.27±4.19, Women – 14.3±7.64) compared to the standard value (10 in men and 13.25 in women). Hence, BMI is not an accurate tool to reflect the nutritional status. Biochemical data revealed that the haemoglobin (12.53±2.24 g/dL in men, 11±1.73g/dL in women) and platelet count was lower than the normal values. The PG-SGA score revealed that 42% of the study population were in the SGA B and C category implying moderate to severe malnutrition and 54% of the patients complained of deglutition. Cancer cachexia along with lower values of anthropometric measurements and biochemical parameters reflect poor nutritional status among HNC patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy or both. Therefore, nutritional screening and assessment of the HNC patients are of utmost importance before starting the treatment regimen.