Protein supplementation in pediatric oncology: a systematic review revealing a lack of evidence and insights from other chronically and critically ill children.

ABSTRACT:

Background & aims

Exercise interventions may counteract adverse effects of childhood cancer (treatment) on anthropometrics, body composition and physical fitness. However, inadequate nutritional status and loss of muscle mass and strength might limit effectiveness. Protein supplementation might support muscle preservation and enhance the benefits of exercise but evidence on its effect in children with cancer is lacking. This review examined the potential effect of protein supplementation on anthropometrics, body composition, physical fitness and adverse effects in children with cancer from diagnosis until two years after end of treatment.

Methods

PubMed/MEDLINE was searched for literature on childhood cancer and protein supplementation (14th of May 2025). Reports examining a

SUBMITTER: den Hartog E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12728054 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature