COMPARATIVE STUDY OF FOOD INTAKE AND ANTHROPOMETRIC MEASURES OF THE GROUP OF NON-METASTATIC COLORECTAL AND STOMACH CANCER PATIENTS WITH THE GROUP OF HEALTHY PEOPLE

Colorectal and gastric cancers are among the most common types of cancers. Understanding the relationship between dietary factors and these cancers is crucial for preventing malnutrition and managing it in patients. This study aimed to conduct a comparative investigation into the nutritional intake and anthropometric indices of patients with non-metastatic colorectal and gastric cancer compared to a healthy control group.

In this descriptive, cross-sectional study, 167 participants, including gastric cancer patients (51 individuals), colorectal cancer patients (58 individuals), and a control group (58 individuals), were evaluated. Anthropometric parameters were measured using standard methods, and dietary intakes were assessed using a 24-hour dietary recall questionnaire. Subsequently, statistical analyses were performed using SPSS-21 software.

The study findings indicated that the body mass index, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio were significantly higher in the control group (p< 0.01). Moreover, colorectal cancer patients exhibited higher ratios compared to gastric cancer patients (p < 0.01). Evaluation of dietary intakes in all three groups revealed a significantly lower intake of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and energy in the gastric cancer group compared to the colorectal cancer group (p < 0.01). Additionally, in the gastric cancer group, the intake of energy, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats was significantly lower than in the other two groups (p < 0.05).

According to the results of this study, it appears that cancer patients exhibit significant differences in anthropometric indices and dietary intakes compared to non-afflicted individuals. It is recommended to involve specialized nutrition therapy groups to enhance their health status.