What is a major concern for immunocompromised patients undergoing bone marrow transplants?

For immunocompromised patients undergoing bone marrow transplants, unsafe food handling is a major concern because their immune systems are significantly weakened during this critical period. Patients undergoing such medical treatments are at a heightened risk for infections, including those that can be transmitted through contaminated food. The neutropenic diet, which is often recommended for these patients, emphasizes safe food handling practices to minimize exposure to pathogens. Proper cooking, washing, and storing of food are essential to protect these vulnerable individuals from foodborne illnesses.

The other options, while they may have relevance in other contexts, do not pose the same immediate risk in the setting of bone marrow transplants. Excessive physical activity is not typically a direct concern compared to the potential for infection from unsafe food handling. High sugar diets and low protein diets can affect overall health and recovery but are not as critical in the context of immediate safety concerns associated with compromised immune systems. Thus, focusing on food safety is paramount for ensuring the health and well-being of immunocompromised patients during this vulnerable time.