Effectiveness of Web Applications on Improving Nutritional Status of Patients with Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

The most common cancer in Thailand is colorectal cancer (CRC). A lack of knowledge and misleading information from social media have contributed to cancer deaths from malnutrition. A web application is a tool that provides easy access to scientific nutritional information via an online platform. In this study, our goal was to compare the nutritional status of CRC patients using different nutrition-based educational tools with nutrition counseling, namely the Nutrition Educational Prototype based on Smartphone Web Applications (NEPSA) and standard hospital leaflets. Anthropometric and biochemical analyses and a dietary assessment, especially calories and protein, were measured during three visits. This study finally included 28 CRC patients who were undergoing chemotherapy and malnutrition with a body mass index (BMI) of <20 kg/m2. Thirteen participants received NEPSA while the remaining fifteen participants received a standard hospital leaflet. The results showed that NEPSAs improved nutritional outcomes by encouraging weight gain, increasing BMI, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and albumin levels, and consuming more calories and protein. NEPSA should be implemented to enhance the nutrition outcomes from anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary perspectives from nutrition advice among CRC patients. There could be positive impacts at the national level regarding equal accessibility to Thailand’s nutrition information.