Assessment of nutritional status at the time of diagnosis in patients treated for head and neck cancer

SummaryObjectiveTo evaluate the nutritional status at the time of diagnosis of patients treated for head and neck cancer.Material and methodsSingle-centre prospective study. Nutritional assessment comprised: clinical interview, physical examination, and a laboratory work-up. Clinical interview assessed: reference weight, diet, calorie intake, causes of weight loss, use of dietary supplements. A subjective global assessment of nutritional status (Detsky index) was established on the basis of clinical interview. The patient's height and weight were determined and serum albumin was assayed. Weight loss, body mass index, and Buzby index were then calculated. Two groups of malnourished patients were distinguished: moderately malnourished (group 1), severely malnourished (group 2). Variables were compared between the two groups by Chi2 test.ResultsOne hundred and sixty-nine patients were included in the study: 145 had a history of smoking and alcohol abuse, 82 (48.5%) were malnourished and 47 of them were classified in group 1. All patients of group 1 had a normal or pureed diet. 21 (69%) patients of group 2 had a pureed or liquid diet. The mean daily calorie intake was 31 kcal/kg/24 h for group 1 and 20 kcal/kg/24 h for group 2. The main causes of weight loss were pain and dysphagia. Dietary supplements were not used by any of the patients in group 1 and by four (13%) patients in group 2. The concordance between the Detsky index and objective nutritional status was 92% for the overall population. Malnutrition was significantly more frequent among males (P = 0.01), alcohol users (P = 0.02), elderly subjects (P = 0.01), patients with pharyngeal tumour (P = 0.03), and patients with advanced tumour stage (P = 0.01).ConclusionThe prevalence of malnutrition among patients with head and neck cancer is high. Assessment of nutritional status and appropriate management must be part of the initial work-up of these patients.