Assessment of the Nutritional Profile of Women with Breast Cancer from the Agadir Region (South of Morocco)

Abstract

Background: Although the incidence of breast cancer and the resulting mortality are very high in Morocco, no study has been carried out on the role of the nutritional factors in the development of BC. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the nutritional profile of women with BC in southern Morocco Methods: The study was conducted with 91 women with breast cancer. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were used for the assessment of the nutritional profile and the collection of socio-economic data. Biometric measures were carried out in parallel. Results: The results showed that postmenopausal women had a significantly higher mean weight and Body Mass Index than non-menopausal women (p < 0.015). The majority of patients (79%) had energy intakes above recommendations. The proportion of lipids was excessive in 46% of cases. Intakes of saturated fatty acids were high in 14% of patients. But those of unsaturated fatty acids were high in over 50% of patients. About 58 % had a very high intake of fast sugars. Cholesterol input was high in 40% of cases. Vitamins A, E and D were provided in small amounts, respectively in 66%, 45% and 91% of patients. Likewise, intakes were low for water-soluble vitamins, especially Vitamins B9 (62.6%) and B12 (54%). Almost the majority of participants in our study (92%) had very low calcium intakes. Inputs of magnesium, zinc and selenium were insufficient in 43%, 35% and 48% of patients respectively. Conclusion: Obesity, excessive energy and sugar intake, as well as mineral and vitamin deficiencies could explain the high incidence of breast cancer in southern Morocco. A balanced diet would fight against breast cancer.