Majority of children diagnosed with cancer in India are 'malnourished': Report
A malnourished child (representative image).
A report titled 'Food Heals Report 2024,'by Cuddles Foundation revealed that malnutrition significantly impacts childhood cancer treatment in India and most children diagnosed with cancer are undernourished.
According to the report, 57 per cent to 61 per cent ofchildren diagnosed with cancerare undernourished.
The report stated that 65 per cent of newly diagnosed paediatric cancer patients in India consume less than half of their daily required calories and protein, which weakens their ability to tolerate cancer treatments.
An estimated 76,000 children are diagnosed with cancer annually in India, and between 57 per cent to 61 per cent of them are undernourished by the time they receive their first nutrition consultation.
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The report noted that widespread malnutrition affects children's ability to tolerate treatment, leading to more complications, infections, and poorer treatment outcomes.
It further highlighted the critical role nutrition plays in paediatric oncology care, adding that malnutrition remains a key barrier to effective treatment.
In India, the survival rates and quality of life for thousands of children with cancer are compromised due to inadequate nutrition.
Purnota Dutta Bahl, founder and CEO of Cuddles Foundation, stressed the urgent need for increased awareness and support to address this issue.
"The findings of the Food Heals Report 2024 underscore a heartbreaking reality, malnutrition continues to be one of the greatest challenges in pediatric cancer care. Proper nutrition gives these brave children the strength to endure grueling treatments and the best chance at recovery," she said.
She further called for more specialised nutritionists, better training, and the prioritisation of nutrition as an integral part of cancer care.
"Together, we can ensure that no child loses their battle because they lack proper nutrition," she added.
(With reports from agencies)
