Unmet needs in nutritional care in African paediatric oncology units

Abstract

Background: Up to 50% of children diagnosed with cancer in low- and middle-income countries are malnourished, which likely affects survival. Subjects and methods: An online survey to paediatric oncology units (POUs) in Africa was done regarding nutritional assessment and care. Results: Sixty-six surveys were received from POUs in 31 countries. Only 44.4% had a dedicated dietician for nutritional assessment and support; 29.6% undertook routine nutritional assessment during treatment. None reported defined criteria for nutritional intervention. Total parenteral nutrition was not available for 42.6% of POUs, while 51.8% did not have access to commercial enteral nutrition for inpatients, and 25.9% of the hospitals could not supply any home-based nutritional supplements. Conclusion: Nutritional assessment in POUs in Africa is neither routinely undertaken nor are there defined criteria to initiate nutritional interventions. Standardized guidelines for nutritional assessment and interventions are needed for African POUs to enable improved outcome.