Impact Of Food Demonstration Interventions On Chronic Disease-Associated Risk Factors In Pediatric Cancer Survivors: A Literature Review

Abstract

Research has shown that pediatric cancer survivors have an increased risk of developing chronic diseases. Evidence has shown that consuming a healthy diet can reduce risk factors related to chronic disease. Because diet-related behaviors are shaped during childhood, it is theorized that early exposure to nutrition knowledge, nutritious foods, and cooking skills using food demonstrations can promote healthy eating behaviors and decrease this population’s risk for developing chronic disease. A literature review of food demonstration interventions in young pediatric cancer survivors was conducted. Databases searched include PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL PLUS. Articles were included based on intervention design. The review yielded 8 articles, but only 1 fit the review criteria. This study did not measure outcomes that could contribute to the focus of this review. An additional review analyzed food demonstration use in obesity prevention programs for children. All but one study indicated that intervention goals were met. As food demonstrations have shown efficacy in childhood populations to prevent obesity, similar results could be achieved in young childhood cancer survivor populations. Given the lack of studies using this intervention for the target population, further research is needed to make conclusions regarding their efficacy for this at-risk population.