Diet, Gastrointestinal Symptoms, and Health-Related Quality of Life in Children With Solid Tumors Receiving Chemotherapy.

Abstract

BackgroundChildren undergoing chemotherapy often experience gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, negatively impacting health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Although macro- and micronutrients have been associated with GI symptoms and HRQOL following cancer diagnosis, more evidence is needed in pediatric oncology populations. This study examines how dietary intake is associated with GI symptoms and HRQOL in children with solid tumors undergoing chemotherapy.MethodThis secondary analysis used the Block Kids Food Screener to assess intake of macro- and micronutrients; the Pediatric Patient-Reported Outcomes version of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events to measure GI symptoms; and the PedsQL 4.0 to evaluate HRQOL. Logistic and adjusted linear regression models were used to examine how dietary intake was associated with GI symptoms and HRQOL.ResultsThis study included 57 children with a mean age of 13.8 years (SD = 3.5). The majority were male (64.9%) and non-Hispanic White (43.9%). Increased vitamin C was associated with reduced nausea, while increased carbohydrates and beta-carotene were correlated with reduced diarrhea and increased vitamin E with reduced constipation. Increased total fat increased the odds of diarrhea. Higher protein and selenium and lower carbohydrates and vitamin C were associated with better physical HRQOL. A positive association between vitamin A and social HRQOL was noted.ConclusionHigher intakes of carbohydrates, beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E and lower intake of fat were associated with fewer GI symptoms, while greater consumption of protein, selenium, and vitamin A and lower carbohydrates were linked to improved HRQOL. Findings provide preliminary evidence for development of nutritional plans for pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy.