Abstract:

Background: Nutritional awareness and dietary practices play a crucial role in supporting the well-being and treatment outcomes of cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. However, there is limited research on these aspects among adult cancer patients in Tanzania.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the nutritional awareness and dietary practices among adult cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment at Bugando Cancer Centre in Tanzania.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 104 adult cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic characteristics, nutritional awareness, and dietary practices. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Results: The findings revealed that 50.3% of the participants were aware of the importance of proper nutrition during cancer treatment. However, there were variations in knowledge and dietary practices among the participants. In dietary practice 38.9% of participants had inadequate food consumption. Factors such as age, marital status, and education level were associated with awareness levels and dietary practice. The frequency of consuming fruits and vegetables was relatively low, while starchy staples, such as rice, were commonly consumed.
 
Conclusion: The study highlights the need for comprehensive and tailored nutritional interventions for adult cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment. Targeted educational programs should be developed to increase awareness and promote healthy dietary practices, with a particular focus on improving access to affordable and nutritious food options. Collaborative efforts involving healthcare providers, support organizations, and community resources are crucial in implementing effective strategies to enhance nutritional knowledge and support the overall well-being of cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment.