Prevalence of protein energy wasting among hemodialysis dependent patients: A Single Center Study

Belal, Amal M; Hussein, Mohamed H; Sayed, Hanan A; Mosbah, Osama; Khairy, Walaa A

doi:10.21608/AJBS.2024.360956

Prevalence of protein energy wasting among hemodialysis dependent patients: A Single Center Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Public Health Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt

² Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt

³ Nephrology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute

10.21608/AJBS.2024.360956

Abstract

Protein Energy Wasting (PEW) is common among hemodialysis patients and detecting it early is crucial for enhancing the prognosis and their quality of life (QOL). Additionally, end-stage renal disease (ESRD) negatively affects QOL. Conducting a thorough assessment of QOL can serve as a valuable tool in enhancing the overall healthcare experience for these individuals. This study aims to determine the prevalence of PEW and measure the QOL of patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis. The current research was conducted on 53 patients at the dialysis unit at Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI) Hospital. Data collection was done using a structured questionnaire including socio-demographic data, short medical history, dietary intake, anthropometric measurements, and SF-12 questionnaire. The results indicated that PEW affects 24.5% of patients on maintenance hemodialysis and there was a significant positive correlation between Body Mass Index (BMI) with Mid Arm Muscle Circumference (MAMC) and Triceps Skin Fold Thickness (TST). A sizable portion of patients had a general decline in their nutritional intake, and their eating habits did not align with guidelines related to their state of health. The majority of patients experienced average QOL, with a greater emphasis on the physical and mental aspects. In conclusion, the anthropometric measurements used in determining nutritional status must be reevaluated and adjusted. This study emphasizes the negative impacts of dialysis on patients' QOL and suggests monitoring and counseling for dietary and psychological issues as well as better patient data recording to improve the standard of care provided.

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