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Malnutrition poses a significant threat to the health of children, leading to severe repercussions. Due to their greater requirements for growth and development, as well as their faster metabolic processes, children are particularly susceptible to nutritional deficiencies compared to adults. The National Library of Medicine highlights that malnutrition is a negative prognostic sign and is strongly linked to advanced stages of cancer. Additionally, it often contributes to the fatalities of children battling cancer. In these cases, malnutrition is recognized as a symptom associated with the progression of aggressive malignancies. Recently, it has gained recognition as a separate issue that warrants acknowledgment and intervention, akin to other complications such as infections and cytopenias.
Malnutrition can heighten a child's risk of developing cancer through the following mechanisms:
Damage to DNA and increased oxidative stress: Deficiencies in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as zinc, can elevate levels of oxidative stress, leading to DNA damage. This damage, caused by free radicals that the body struggles to neutralize, can trigger mutations that may lead to cancer. Conversely, a nutritious diet supports DNA repair mechanisms, thereby helping to prevent genetic mutations that might lead to tumor formation.
Compromised immune response: The immune system is crucial for identifying and eliminating any precursors to malignant cells. Children who suffer from malnutrition often have weakened immune systems, making them more vulnerable to infections and diminishing their ability to fight off precancerous cells. Chronic infections, such as those caused by HPV and EBV, can further weaken the immune system in undernourished children, potentially contributing to cancer development.
Growth delays and hormonal imbalances: Malnutrition can disrupt the functions of growth hormones and affect metabolism, increasing the likelihood of various illnesses and cancers. Insufficient calorie intake can interfere with insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) signaling, which plays a critical role in cell growth and differentiation. Disruptions in these pathways may be linked to a heightened incidence of cancer in children.
Poor treatment effectiveness and delayed diagnostics: Children suffering from malnutrition often find it challenging to endure extended and rigorous cancer treatments. Since malnutrition hampers the body’s ability to recover from aggressive cancer therapies, it raises the risk of mortality and diminishes the chances of survival.
To prevent malnutrition in children, it is essential to ensure a regular consumption of nutrient-rich foods, along with routine health screenings to catch diseases early.
