Do routine questions provide reliable information about the patient’s diet: the results of the survey of parents of children with brain tumors being on the 2nd rehabilitation period

Abstract

Introduction. The course of central nervous system tumors in children and their therapy are associated with nutritional disorders that persist after the end of antineoplastic treatment. It is important to determine nutritional problems, which is usually carried out in the form of a survey by a physician. He also needs to be aware and understand the degree of fulfillment of appointments by patient at home.Aim. To study the problems of organizing nutritional support for children with tumors of the central nervous system after the end of antitumor treatment.Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted, which included a survey, involving the parents of 71 patients with central nervous system tumors, aged 10 to 18 years, undergoing routine rehabilitation at the Russian Field Medical and Rehabilitation Scientific center. The survey included questions that a nutritionist usually asks during a consultation, with answer options, as well as a description of the diet and usual food intake. Anthropometry data (z-score of height-on-age, BMI) are included.Results. 45% of the children had deviations in BMI. The answers to the routine questions “What is the child’s appetite” and “Are there (any) problems with nutrition” were the most uninformative, did not coincide with the actual composition of the diet and food intake. More accurately, the parents answered the questions “Are there (any) problems with diet/regimen organization” and “... associated with eating”. 21 children were prescribed diets (gentle and “low-carb”), but only 6 followed these diets. 58% noted periodic “physical exhaustion”, only 7% are engaged in physical therapy at home. Only 2 children received nutritional support at home. An analysis of the composition of the diet and diet revealed significant problems in 61% of children.Conclusion. In a routine medical survey, simple questions about appetite and “are there any problems with nutrition” are not enough. Simple anthropometry is not enough. The survey has shown its effectiveness, but an analysis of the questionnaire is needed. Not all patients can follow dietary recommendations, it is necessary to take into account the motivation and understanding of both parents and children.