Haematological Cancers and Bone Marrow Transplants

Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is a treatment option for a variety of hematologic cancers. The procedure is used to restore bone marrow function in patients receiving intensive chemotherapy and radiation, through infusion of progenitor cells or stem cells with an ability to multiply and differentiate into all types of mature blood cells: red cells, white cells and platelets.

Many patients diagnosed with haematological cancers undergo treatments that causes a wide range of complications and side effects that affect their nutritional status for prolonged periods of time. The role of nutritional intervention with these patients has shown to improve treatment-related side effects, improving their quality of life, body composition and functioning capacity. Nutritional status is strongly affected by the process of BMT. The reduced protein intake, for example, may influence immune function during metabolic stress.

Cancer patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation (BMT) often require nutritional therapy to combat the toxic nature of their therapy. Ingrid Schloss is specially trained to assist these patients through their treatment, monitoring their nutritional status and adjusting their dietary requirements where necessary to help them achieve the best possible outcomes.