Comparison between parameters of nutritional status and handgrip strength in individuals with solid and hematological tumors

Abstract

Objective: To compare parameters of nutritional assessment and functional capacity in individuals with solid (STs) and hematological tumors (HTs). Methods: Non-probabilistic sampling cross-sectional study, including adult and elderly people with cancer. Data were collected through a questionnaire, consultation of medical records and assessment of nutritional status of patients at the Onofre Lopes University Hospital (OLUH), Natal – RN. Evaluated parameters: Body Mass Index (BMI), Arm Circumference (AC), Tricipital Skinfold (TS), Adductor Pollicis Muscle (APM) thickness, functional capacity by Hand Grip Strength, Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA), and risk of sarcopenia by GripBMI. Results: There were no significant differences in the descriptive data. Individuals with STs had lower averages in BMI (22,2kg/m²), AC (26,1cm), TS (13,2mm), and more compromised classifications by PG-SGA (B and C). All individuals with STs and 60% of those with HTs showed malnutrition by APM. 37% of those with STs were at risk of sarcopenia by GripBMI, while none of those with HTs did. Conclusion: Individuals with STs had a greater nutritional impairment compared to those with HTs. The findings show the importance of a differentiated look for nutritional care in relation to the tumor site.