Malnutrition and risk factors in tunisian patients with colorectal cancer

Background and Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most frequent digestive cancer. Its occurrence is associated with many factors including nutrition and lifestyle. CRC is often associated to malnutrition which worsens its prognosis. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the nutritional status of patients with CRC. Patients and Methods: A retrospective study about fifty patients with CRC recruited in the Department of Gastroenterology and Surgery of “La Rabta” Hospital in Tunis as well as fifty random controls. The groups were matched for age and sex. The nutritional status of patients was assessed by anthropometric measurements, laboratory tests (albumin), and three nutritional scores. Dietary intakes were quantified by a frequency questionnaire and 24-h recall. Results: Significant risk factors were obesity ( P = 0.02), menopause ( P = 0.006) and the high consumption of red meat ( P = 0.002), processed meat ( P = 0.002), fried foods ( P = 0.0001), and sugar ( P = 0.0001). The consumption of green tea ( P = 0.003), fruit ( P = 0.001), and cereals ( P = 0.0001) was higher in controls. Malnutrition was common measured by the body mass index, the percentage of weight loss (42%), albumin (60%), and different nutritional scores. The energy and protein intakes of patients were below the recommended requirements in 94% and 92% of patients, respectively. Deficiencies in minerals, vitamins, and trace elements were found. Conclusions: Malnutrition was very common in patients with CRC with multiple vitamin and mineral deficits.