Relationship between food and onset of oncological diseases: an evaluation of the knowledge of brazilian university students

Abstract

Introduction: Inadequate eating habits and nutrition are responsible for most cases of oncological diseases in Brazil. Objective: Undertaken to assess the level of knowledge of university students about the relationship between food and the onset of oncological diseases. Methods: Interviews were conducted with 188 students from undergraduate courses. The obtained data were tabulated and analyzed by calculating simple averages, absolute numbers and percentage. Results: Occurrence of cancer in the member of the family was declared by 58%, with breast cancer being the most reported. When asked about the occurrence of cancer being triggered by food, 80% stated “yes”, among industrialized foods; vegetables grown with the use of pesticides and transgenics most cited. As regards cancer prevention through food, 82% of the respondents were positive, citing fruits and vegetables. fifty-three percent (53%) stated they consumed fruits and vegetables; 80% meat, eggs, milk and dairy products; 80% sugars and fats; 58% sausages/stuffed meat products; and 80% industrialized beverage. Only 42.5% of respondents reported having sought the aid of a nutritionist. Conclusions: The results point to a need to raise awareness in the population about the dangers associated with food habits and to provide information that contributes to the adoption of healthy eating.