Malnutrition is a major problem and when it comes to children’s health, it can have serious implications. In an interview with HT lifestyle, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Sharma, director, Hemeto-Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant, BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital said, “Malnutrition and food adulteration can lead to DNA repair repression, oxidative stress height, and cancer through cancer.” Also read Childhood cancer: Initial symptoms of cancer in children that every parent should know
Here is how malnutrition can increase the risk of cancer in children:
Weak immune system:
The immune system is highly important in detecting and eradicating possible precurses of cancer cells. The immune system is weak in young children, and they are more likely to be infected and unable to get rid of preceding cells. EBV and HPV are some old infections that can cause cancer in children of malnourished families as the immune system is suppressed.
Oxidative stress and DNA damage:
Lack of vitamins A, C, E and zinc can lead to an increase in oxidative stress that can damage DNA. Free radicals create mutations in the human body, and when the body does not have a means of fighting them, they can give rise to the development of cancer. Adequate nutrition also promotes DNA repair mechanisms, so prevents the formation of genetic mutations that can lead to tumor formation. Also read Childhood Cancer: Health experts remove myths and taboo, share important facts that you should know
Changes in growth retardation and hormonal balance:
Malnutrition development also changes the effects of hormones and metabolism, which can make individuals unsafe for various forms of diseases and cancer. Low-calorie diets can intervene with development factor (IGF-1) with signaling, which are involved in cell proliferation and discrimination. These routes can be associated with increase in childhood cancer.
Delayed diagnosis and poor treatment results:
Children who suffer from cancer are usually malnourished and are not able to bear long and rigid chemotherapy. Therefore, malnutrition, toxic cancer reduces the body’s ability to heal from treatments, which increases the mortality rate and reduces the chances of survival. Also read International Childhood Cancer Day 2024: 10 signs of childhood cancer you should not ignore you
Prevention Tips and Medical Intervention:
- Adequate intake of protein, vitamins and minerals should be obtained through initial nutrition intervention.
- Improvement in food safety initiative in low -income areas aimed at improving people’s diet.
- Routine check-ups to identify the early stages of malnutrition and other possible health issues.
Awareness creation campaign should be organized for the public to inform the long -term effects of malnutrition.
Note the readers: This article is only for informative purposes and is not an option for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor with any question about a medical condition.
