International Research Journal of Oncology

Background: Advancements in research and technology have expanded the array of available cancer treatment options. Nonetheless, these treatments may adversely impact the overall health of patients. The specific influence of each treatment option or their combined effects on cancer patients remains unclear in Kenya. Each person's medical history, diagnosis, and response to treatment are unique; so, are they. There may be severe, minor, or no side effects. Various nutrient-related side effects of cancer are experienced by these patients, and they include diarrhea, vomiting, altered taste and odor, discomfort when eating, nausea, and appetite loss. These eventually influence the nutritional status and quality of life of these patients. Among the adverse effects of cancer treatment are dry mouth, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, and constipation.

Methods: Employing an analytical cross-sectional study design, the research involved 384 participants selected through systematic sampling. Data collection utilized semi-structured questionnaires to obtain data on cancer treatment nutrition-related side effects. Quantitative data analysis was conducted using STATA version 17, incorporating descriptive statistics such as mean, mode, and percentages. Logistics regression (Crude odds ratio- COR) was done to explore any existing significant relationship between cancer treatment nutrition-related side effects and nutrition status, whereby a p-value of less than 0.05 depicted the existence of a significant association at a confidence interval of 95%.

Results: The study identified a prevalence of 34% (n=129) for nutrition-related side effects among the 384 respondents. Among these side effects, decreased appetite was the most prevalent main symptom (n=49, 38%), while nausea was the least experienced main symptom (n=14, 11%). A significant relationship (p=0.002) was established between nutrition-related side effects of cancer treatment and the nutrition status of the study respondents (COR=1.33; 95% CI=0.50,3.57).

Conclusion: Prompt management of nutrition-related side effects of cancer treatment is crucial to ensure optimal treatment outcomes and enhance the overall quality of life for cancer patients.