Influence of the Type of Cancer Treatment Performed on the Body Composition and Diet of Women with Breast Cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Changes in weight status, nutritional status and dietary patterns are often cited in patients with cancer, being present at all stages of the disease, among other causes brought about by uncomfortable and physiological changes resulting from the treatment. Objective: To evaluate the influence of the anti-neoplastic therapy on anthropometric and dietary markers of women with breast cancer treated at referral institutions in the city of Fortaleza – Ceará. Method: The sample consisted of 182 women, divided into three treatment groups, regardless of any previous surgery: I (n=57) chemotherapy; II (n=59) chemotherapy and radiation therapy, III (n=66) without treatment. For analysis of the weight status, we measured weight, height and waist circumference. The usual weight was also questioned. For food information a 24-hour intake recall was used. Results: A prevalence of excess weight with no statistical difference between groups was detected. The diet consumed by most of the interviewees was characterized by low energy intake of carbohydrates and fiber, appropriate intake of lipids, cholesterol and simple sugars, and excess consumption of protein, salt and sodium. Conclusion: Such composition of the diet was not associated with the type of treatment. In the group studied, the type of antineoplastic treatment had no influence on the food and nutrition status detected.