High prevalence and risk factors of undernutrition in adult cancer patients at Hawassa University Hospital: a call for targeted interventions.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Cancer, a condition marked by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, remains a major global health concern and is the second most common cause of death worldwide. Both the disease itself and its treatments can negatively impact taste, smell, appetite, and nutrient absorption, increasing the risk of malnutrition. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with undernutrition among adult cancer patients, with the goal of identifying key characteristics that could inform targeted interventions to address nutritional challenges in this population.

Method

A cross-sectional study involving 393 participants was conducted at a hospital using a convenient sampling method. Data collection took place over a two-month period from April to June 202

SUBMITTER: Worku SG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12422259 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature