Impacto do polimorfismo do gene FTO no perfil antropométrico, pressão arterial, consumo alimentar e nível de atividade física de pacientes oncológicos em quimioterapia

Abstract

Introduction: Chemotherapy has different side effects due to its action on all cells, including healthy ones. The genetic, anthropometric and eating behavior profiles can help evaluate and manage patients undergoing chemotherapy. Objective: To investigate the relationship between the rs99396009 polymorphism of the FTO gene and anthropometric markers, blood pressure, dietary intake, and physical activity levels in oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy. Methodology: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Maranhão Cancer Hospital Dr. Tarquino Lopes Filho between May and September 2024. Patients undergoing chemotherapy were included. Analyses included the FTO gene polymorphism, anthropometric markers through Body Mass Index (BMI), neck, waist, hip, and calf circumferences, Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR), blood pressure, physical activity levels, and dietary intake. Results: Data from 202 oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy were analyzed, predominantly women (60.7%) with a mean age of 55.5 years (±14.1). Breast cancer was the most prevalent (24.3%), followed by digestive tract neoplasms (21.3%). The mean BMI was 26.0 kg/m² (±5.12), with 48.2% of participants classified as overweight. Cardiovascular risk (assessed by WHR) was high in 60% of participants, and 40.8% were at increased risk of sarcopenia (calf circumference). Regarding physical activity levels, 32.7% of patients were active or very active, with men being more active (p=0.048). No significant associations were found between FTO genotypes and anthropometric markers, risk factors, or comorbidities, except for differences in neck circumference between TT and AA genotypes (p=0.034) and in adjusted calf circumference between AT and AA (p=0.030). Dietary intake was inadequate in most patients, with no association with FTO. WHR was the most relevant factor in differentiating FTO genotypes. Conclusion: Significant differences were observed in mean neck circumference between FTO TT and AA genotypes and in calf circumference between AT and AA. Although genetic analysis did not indicate a significant association with pre-existing diseases, anthropometric classification, blood pressure, dietary intake, or physical activity levels, WHR appeared to be a key differentiating factor among FTO genotypes.