Belo Horizonte, Brazil

IIPAN Center & Collaborators

The pediatric oncology unit of Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte is the largest public hospital of the state Minas Gerais, in the Southeast region of Brazil. Approximately 110 new cases of childhood cancer are diagnosed each year, representing patients from the majority of the cities in the state. Minas Gerais is a populous state and its capital, Belo Horizonte, represents one of the most important metropolis of the country. Over 31% of the population of the state of Minas Gerais live with food insecurity and most families served by Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte face socioeconomic difficulties. IIPAN is an integral partner in advancing nutritional research for the country and nutritional care for the patients served.

Pediatric oncologist Dr. Joaquim Caetano Aguirre Neto is the IIPAN medical collaborator. He works with dietitian Mayara Rosa Alvarenga on advancing clinical care for children with cancer and is expanding our understanding of the impact of nutrition in pediatric oncology by collaborating in multicenter research studies.

Site Challenges

• Socioeconomic disparities.
• Low provider/patient ratio.
• Little training in nutrition methodology and research.
• Lack of mentorship for nutritionists.

Site Needs

• Family and patient education on basics in nutrition.
• Clinical program development and advancing nutrition research.