Anthropometric Indicators in Children and Adolescents after Treatment of a Malignant Tumour

Overview

The authors made anthropological examinations and evaluated dietary habits in a group of 127 children and adolescents (57 girls and 70 boys) aged 12.64 ± 4.38 years who were formerly treated on account of a malignant tumour. The group comprised 65 children treated on account of lymphoblastic leukaemia, 37 children on account of malignant lymphoma and 37 on account of a solid tumour. The authors recorded in these children a higher body mass index (BMI), higher percentage of body fat, a higher percentage of muscular tissue and a lower percentage of the skeletal component. The predicted final height was lower. The short-term intake of recommended daily allowances was consistent with recommendations for the given age group. The intake of vegetable oils was lower and the intake of cholesterol and table salt was higher than recommendations. The authors recommend the follow-up of anthropometric indicators and dietary habits. It is useful to evaluate concurrently physical activity and to adjust dietary recommendations according to the intensity of physical activity.

Key words:
malignant tumour in childhood, anthropometry, dietary habits