Prevalence of undernutrition at admission and associated factors among children with cancer admitted to the University Hospital of Tangier: a cross-sectional study

Background/objectives In pediatric oncology, undernutrition is a silent emergency. In developing countries, the situation is exacerbated by socio-economic insecurity and limited availability of specialized health services. The purpose of this research is to assess the prevalence of undernutrition and to analyze factors associated with undernutrition in children newly diagnosed with cancer. Methods A total of 97 children, ranging in age from 6 months to 16 years, admitted for cancer to the hematology-oncology unit at the University Hospital of Tangier, were included in a cross-sectional study. Nutritional status was assessed using anthropometric indicators (BMI/A, MUAC/A) according to WHO standards. The analysis was based on a logistic regression model in order to identify factors associated with undernutrition. Results The prevalence of undernutrition according to BMI/A was 35.1% [95% CI (25%; 45%)], and the factors associated with undernutrition were rural origin [OR=3.21; 95% CI: (1.15; 8.94); p = 0.02], and solid tumors [OR=2.31; 95% CI: (1.40; 3.80); p = <0.001]. In contrast, the prevalence of undernutrition was higher according to MUAC/A 44.3% [95% CI (34%; 54%)], the factors associated with undernutrition were rural origin [OR=3.40; 95% CI: (1.21; 9.94); p = 0.02], solid tumors [OR=2.02; 95% CI: (1.27; 3.20); p = 0.003], and low socioeconomic status [OR=6.10; 95% CI: (1.16; 31.82); p = 0.03]. No significant association was found between undernutrition and variables such as age or gender. Conclusion Undernutrition is common in pediatric oncology, requiring the assessment of potential associated factors and the implementation of appropriate nutritional and educational protocols.