2021, Article / Letter to editor (Clinical Nutrition, vol. 40, iss. 5, (2021), pp. 2898-2913)Background: This practical guideline is based on the current scientific ESPEN guidelines on nutrition in cancer patients. Methods: ESPEN guidelines have been shortened and transformed into flow charts for easier use in clinical practice. The practical guideline is dedicated to all professionals including physicians, dieticians, nutritionists and nurses working with patients with cancer. Results: A total of 43 recommendations are presented with short commentaries for the nutritional and metabolic management of patients with neoplastic diseases. The disease-related recommendations are preceded by general recommendations on the diagnostics of nutritional status in cancer patients. Conclusion: This practical guideline gives guidance to health care providers involved in the management of cancer patients to offer optimal nutritional care. (c) 2021 European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
2021, Article / Letter to editor (Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, vol. 19, iss. 2, (2021), pp. 144-+)Background: Cachexia is common in patients with esophagogastric cancer and is associated with increased mortality. Nutritional screening and dietetic interventions can be helpful in preventing evolvement of cachexia. Our aim was to study the real-world prevalence and prognostic value of pretreatment cachexia on overall survival (OS) using patient-reported weight loss, and to explore dietetic interventions in esophagogastric cancer. Materials and Methods: Patients with esophagogastric cancer (2015-2018), regardless of disease stage, who participated in the Prospective Observational Cohort Study of Esophageal-Gastric Cancer Patients (POCOP) and completed patient-reported outcome measures were included. Data on weight loss and dietetic interventions were retrieved from questionnaires before start of treatment (baseline) and 3 months thereafter. Additional patient data were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Cachexia was defined as self-reported >5% half-year body weight loss at baseline or >2% in patients with a body mass index (BMI) <20 kg/m(2) according to the Fearon criteria. The association between cachexia and OS was analyzed using multivariable Cox proportional hazard analyses adjusted for sex, age, performance status, comorbidities, primary tumor location, disease stage, histology, and treatment strategy. Results: Of 406 included patients, 48% had pretreatment cachexia, of whom 65% were referred for dietetic consultation at baseline. The proportion of patients with cachexia was the highest among those who received palliative chemotherapy (59%) or best supportive care (67%). Cachexia was associated with decreased OS (hazard ratio, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.11-2.09). Median weight loss after 3-month follow-up was lower in patients with cachexia who were referred to a dietician at baseline compared with those who were not (0% vs 2%; P=.047). Conclusions: Nearly half of patients with esophagogastric cancer have pretreatment cachexia. Dietetic consultation at baseline was not reported in more than one-third of the patients with cachexia. Because cachexia was independently associated with decreased survival, improving nutritional screening and referral for dietetic consultation are warranted to prevent further deterioration of malnutrition and mortality.
2021, Article / Letter to editor (Cancer Medicine (Malden, Ma), (2021))It is unclear to what extent patients with pancreatic cancer have cachexia and had a dietetic consult for nutritional support. The aim was to assess the prevalence of cachexia, dietitian consultation, and overall survival in these patients. This prospective multicenter cohort study included patients with pancreatic cancer, who participated in the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Project and completed patient reported outcome measures (2015-2018). Additional data were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Cachexia was defined as self-reported >5% body weight loss, or >2% in patients with a BMI <20 kg/m(2) over the past half year. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to analyze overall survival. In total, 202 patients were included from 18 centers. Cachexia was present in 144 patients (71%) and 81 of those patients (56%) had dietetic consultation. Cachexia was present in 63% of 94 patients who underwent surgery, 77% of 70 patients who received palliative chemotherapy and 82% of 38 patients who had best supportive care. Dietitian consultation was reported in 53%, 52%, and 71%, respectively. Median overall survival did not differ between patients with and without cachexia, but decreased in those with severe weight loss (12 months (IQR 7-20) vs. 16 months (IQR 8-31), p = 0.02), as compared to those with <10% weight loss during the past half year. Two-thirds of patients with pancreatic cancer present with cachexia of which nearly half had no dietetic consultation. Survival was comparable in patients with and without cachexia, but decreased in patients with more severe weight loss.
2021, Article / Letter to editor (Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, vol. 24, iss. 6, (2021), pp. 543-554)Purpose of review COVID-19 disease often presents with malnutrition and nutrition impact symptoms, such as reduced appetite, nausea and loss of taste. This review summarizes the most up-to-date research on nutritional assessment in relation to mortality and morbidity risk in patients with COVID-19. Recent findings Numerous studies have been published on malnutrition, muscle wasting, obesity, and nutrition impact symptoms associated with COVID-19, mostly observational and in hospitalized patients. These studies have shown a high prevalence of symptoms (loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dysphagia, fatigue, and loss of smell and taste), malnutrition, micronutrient deficiencies and obesity in patients with COVID-19, all of which were associated with increased mortality and morbidity risks. Early screening and assessment of malnutrition, muscle wasting, obesity, nutrition impact symptoms and micronutrient status in patients with COVID-19, followed by pro-active nutrition support is warranted, and expected to contribute to improved recovery. There is limited research on nutritional status or nutrition impact symptoms in patients living at home or in residential care. RCTs studying the effects of nutrition intervention on clinical outcomes are lacking. Future research should focus on these evidence gaps.
2021, Article / Letter to editor (Clinical Nutrition, vol. 40, iss. 6, (2021), pp. 3815-3826)Background & aims: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation has been proposed as a potential therapy for cancer-related malnutrition, which affects up to 70% of patients with cancer. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the effects of oral omega-3 PUFA supplementation on muscle maintenance, quality of life, body weight and treatment-related toxicities in patients with cancer. Methods: Randomised controlled trials in patients with cancer aged 18 years were retrieved from 5 electronic databases: MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL (via EBSCOhost), and Web of Science, from database inception until 31st of December 2019. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Trials supplementing >600 mg/d omega-3 PUFA (oral capsules, pure fish oil or oral nutritional supplements) compared with a control intervention for >3 weeks were included. Meta-analyses were performed in RevMan to determine the mean differences (MD) in muscle mass, quality of life and body weight, and odds ratio (OR) for the incidence of treatmentrelated toxicities between omega-3 PUFA and control groups with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and I2 for heterogeneity. Results: We included 31 publications in patients with various types of cancers and degrees of malnutrition. The Cochrane risk of bias tool graded most trials as 'unclear' or 'high' risk of bias. Meta-analyses showed no significant difference between omega-3 PUFA supplements and control intervention on muscle mass, quality of life and body weight. Oral omega-3 PUFA supplements reduced the likelihood of developing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (OR: 0.20; 95% CI: 0.10-0.40; p < 0.001; I2 1/4 0%). Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that oral omega-3 PUFA supplementation does not improve muscle maintenance, quality of life or body weight in patients with cancer, but may reduce the incidence of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Well-designed large-scale randomised controlled trials in homogenous patient cohorts are required to confirm these findings. (c) 2021 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.
2021, Article / Letter to editor (Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, vol. 25, iss. 8, (2021), pp. 999-1005)Objectives To assess changes in prevalence of malnutrition and its associated factors among people living in Dutch nursing homes in 2009, 2013 and 2018. Design Secondary data analysis of the International Prevalence Measurement of Care Quality (LPZ) study. Setting Dutch nursing homes. Participants Residents living at a psychogeriatric or somatic ward in Dutch nursing homes in 2009, 2013 or 2018. Measurements weight and height, unintentional weight loss over the last month and last six months, age, sex, length of stay up to the measurement day, care dependency, and the presence of various diseases (dementia, diabetes mellitus, stroke, diseases of the respiratory system, respiratory diseases and pressure ulcers). Results In total, 14,317 residents were included in this study with a mean age of 82.2, 70.9 female and 66.8% was living on a psychogeriatric ward. Results of this study show relative stability in background characteristics of the nursing home population over the last decade. In the total sample, 16.7% was malnourished and these percentages were 16.6% in 2009, 17.5% in 2013 and 16.3% in 2018. Multiple binary logistic regression analyses revealed having a pressure ulcer, female sex and living on a psychogeriatric department to be positively associated and having diabetes mellitus to be negatively associated with malnutrition throughout the years. These associations were strong and similar across years. Conclusion Even though much attention has been paid to prevent malnutrition in Dutch nursing homes over the last decades, results show a relatively stable malnutrition prevalence rate of around 16%. This leads to the question if nursing staff is able to sufficiently recognize residents with (a risk of) malnutrition, and if they are aware of interventions they could perform to decrease this rate.
2021, Article / Letter to editor (Clinical Nutrition, vol. 40, iss. 6, (2021), pp. 4037-4042)Background & aims: Anorexia is a frequent symptom in cancer and we aimed to assess its prevalence among patients at their first cancer diagnosis by different appetite tools and the relationship between each tool with self-reports of food intake. We also tested whether cancer anorexia influences outcomes independently of reduced food intake or body weight loss (BWL) overtime and whether BWL was associated with complications during anticancer-therapy. Methods: Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Therapy (FAACT) score, self-assessment of appetite, Anorexia Questionnaire (AQ) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were administered. Percent of food intake was used as a criterion measure of anorexia. We registered BWL and anticancer-therapy complications over 3-month-follow-up. Results: 438 cancer patients from 7 cancer-centers worldwide were included. The prevalence of anorexia was 39.9% by FAACT score, 40.2% by VAS, 40.6% by the self-assessment of appetite and 65.4% by AQ. Low food intake (<50%) was reported in 28% of patients. All appetite tools correlated with food intake percent (P < 0.0001). We documented a correlation between self-assessment of appetite, FAACT score, VAS and BWL overtime (P < 0.04). The self-assessment of appetite (P = 0.0152) and the FAACT score (P = 0.043) were associated with BWL independently of anticancer therapies. Among patients with BWL, the risk to develop complications was greater with respect to those who maintained a stable or gained body weight (P = 0.03). Conclusions: In our sample of cancer patients, FAACT score and self-assessment of appetite performed well when low food intake was used as a criterion measure, and revealed an association of anorexia with BWL, which was, in turn, related to the development of anticancer-therapy complications. (c) 2021 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.
2021, Article / Letter to editor (Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, (2021))Background Surrogate decision-making regarding oral nutritional supplements (ONS) for nursing home residents with advanced dementia is a complex process. In this cross-sectional study, we assessed whether Dutch dietitians, elderly care physicians (physicians) and surrogate decision-makers (SDMs) differ in the factors that they regard important when considering ONS. We also investigated differences in opinion regarding whether or not ONS is a life-prolonging measure. Methods Through an online survey, 90 dietitians, 53 physicians and 70 SDMs of nursing home residents (all aged >= 65 years old with advanced dementia) rated the level of perceived influence of 11 pre-defined factors on their decision-making, ranked factors in order of importance and stated whether they considered ONS a life-prolonging measure or not. By statistical analysis, we tested differences in the mean sum of ranks for perceived influence differing between groups. We also tested differences in proportions between groups of those who considered ONS a life-prolonging measure. Results Rating of perceived influence significantly differed for six factors. Quality of life was ranked as the most influential factor by all groups. Dietitians significantly differed in their opinion on the life-prolonging effect of ONS from physicians (odds ratio = 0.29, 95% confidence interval = 0.13-0.65), as well as from SDMs (odds ratio = 0.22, 95% confidence interval = 0.10-0.45). Conclusions Although all groups proclaimed quality of life to be first priority in decision-making, we found that Dutch dietitians, physicians and SDMs differed in what they regarded important when considering ONS for nursing home residents with advanced dementia. Regarding the life-prolonging effect of ONS, dietitians differed in opinion from physicians, as well as from SDMs.
2021, Article / Letter to editor (Clinical Nutrition, vol. 40, iss. 3, (2021), pp. 690-701)Background & aims: The year 2019 marked the centenary of the publication of the Harris and Benedict equations for estimation of energy expenditure. In October 2019 a Scientific Symposium was organized by the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) in Vienna, Austria, to celebrate this historical landmark, looking at what is currently known about the estimation and measurement of energy expenditure. Methods: Current evidence was discussed during the symposium, including the scientific basis and clinical knowledge, and is summarized here to assist with the estimation and measurement of energy requirements that later translate into energy prescription. Results: In most clinical settings, the majority of predictive equations have low to moderate performance, with the best generally reaching an accuracy of no more than 70%, and often lead to large errors in estimating the true needs of patients. Generally speaking, the addition of body composition measurements did not add to the accuracy of predictive equations. Indirect calorimetry is the most reliable method to measure energy expenditure and guide energy prescription, but carries inherent limitations, greatly restricting its use in real life clinical practice. Conclusions: While the limitations of predictive equations are clear, their use is still the mainstay in clinical practice. It is imperative to recognize specific patient populations for whom a specific equation should be preferred. When available, the use of indirect calorimetry is advised in a variety of clinical settings, aiming to avoid under-as well as overfeeding. (C)2020 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.
2021, Article / Letter to editor (International Journal of Nursing Studies, vol. 117, (2021))Context: Malnutrition in institutionalized patients is associated with adverse outcomes and increased costs. Nurses have a crucial role in the recognition and treatment of malnutrition and empowering patients in nutritional care. Objective: This systematic review provides an overview of the effectiveness of nursing nutritional interventions to counteract malnutrition. Data sources: Data were obtained through a systematic search in MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL, EMBASE and ISI Web of Science databases from inception to February 15th 2018. Data extraction: Studies were eligible for inclusion when published in English, Spanish or German. Primary outcome parameters were nutritional status and dietary intake. Data analysis: The Evidence analysis checklist from the American Dietetic Association and GRADE were used to evaluate the methodological quality of the studies. Results: Out of 8162 studies, fifteen studies were included in the study, representing nine hospitals and six long-term care facilities. Two main categories of nursing nutrition interventions were identified; the implementation of 1) a nursing nutrition plan focusing on nursing actions in nutritional care or 2) nursing assistance in feeding support, mostly during mealtimes. Studies were heterogeneous and of most of them of low quality. This hampered drawing conclusions on effectiveness of nursing nutrition interventions on malnutrition related outcomes in clinical care. Nevertheless, six out of 15 studies reported a slightly improved nutritional status and/or clinical outcomes as a result of the interventions. Conclusion: This review identified two categories of nursing nutrition interventions to counteract malnutrition. Their effectiveness needs to be further evaluated in future studies. Tweetable abstract: Systematic review of effective Nursing Nutrition Interventions in the management of malnutrition in hospital and nursing home care. (C) 2021 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (Jpen, Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, vol. 44, iss. 6, (2020), pp. 992-1003)Background The Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) created a consensus-based framework consisting of phenotypic and etiologic criteria to record the occurrence of malnutrition in adults. This is a minimum set of practicable indicators for use in characterizing a patient/client as malnourished, considering the global variations in screening and nutrition assessment, and to be used across different healthcare settings. As with other consensus-based frameworks for diagnosing disease states, these operational criteria require validation and reliability testing, as they are currently based solely on expert opinion. Methods Several forms of validation and reliability are reviewed in the context of GLIM, providing guidance on how to conduct retrospective and prospective studies for criterion and construct validity. Results There are some aspects of GLIM that require refinement; research using large databases can be employed to reach this goal. Machine learning is also introduced as a potential method to support identification of the best cut points and combinations of indicators for use with the different forms of malnutrition, which the GLIM criteria were created to denote. It is noted as well that validation and reliability testing need to occur in a variety of sectors and populations and with diverse persons using GLIM criteria. Conclusion The guidance presented supports the conduct and publication of quality validation and reliability studies for GLIM.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (Clinical Nutrition, vol. 39, iss. 9, (2020), pp. 2872-2880)Background: The Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) created a consensus-based framework consisting of phenotypic and etiologic criteria to record the occurrence of malnutrition in adults. This is a minimum set of practicable indicators for use in characterizing a patient/client as malnourished, considering the global variations in screening and nutrition assessment, and to be used across different health care settings. As with other consensus-based frameworks for diagnosing disease states, these operational criteria require validation and reliability testing as they are currently based solely on expert opinion. Methods: Several forms of validation and reliability are reviewed in the context of GLIM, providing guidance on how to conduct retrospective and prospective studies for criterion and construct validity. Findings: There are some aspects of GLIM criteria which require refinement; research using large data bases can be employed to reach this goal. Machine learning is also introduced as a potential method to support identification of the best cut-points and combinations of operational criteria for use with the different forms of malnutrition, which the GLIM criteria were created to denote. It is noted as well that the validation and reliability testing need to occur in a variety of sectors, populations and with diverse persons completing the criteria. Conclusion: The guidance presented supports the conduct and publication of quality validation and reliability studies for GLIM. (c) 2020 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism and American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition [Published by Wiley]. All rights reserved.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (Health Expectations, (2020))Background Malnutrition is a risk factor for impaired functionality and independence. For optimal treatment of malnourished older adults (OA), close collaboration and communication between all stakeholders involved (OA, their caregivers and health-care and welfare professionals) is important. This qualitative study assesses current collaboration and communication in nutritional care over the continuum of health-care settings and provides recommendations for improvement. Methods Eleven structured focus group interviews and five individual interviews took place in three regions across the Netherlands from November 2017 until February 2018, including OA, caregivers and health-care and welfare professionals. Various aspects of collaboration and communication between all stakeholders were discussed. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using a thematic approach. Results Six main themes emerged: causes of malnutrition, knowledge and awareness, recognition and diagnosis of malnutrition, communication, accountability and food preparation and supply. Physical and social aspects were recognized as important risk factors for malnutrition. Knowledge and awareness regarding malnutrition were acknowledged as being insufficient among all involved. This may impair timely recognition and diagnosis. Responsibility for nutritional care and its communication to other disciplines are low. Food preparation and supply in hospitals, rehabilitation centres and home care are below expected standards. Conclusion Many stakeholders are involved in nutritional care of OA, and lack of communication and collaboration hinders continuity of nutritional care over health-care settings. Lack of knowledge is an important risk factor. Establishing one coordinator of nutritional care is suggested to improve collaboration and communication across health-care settings.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (Journal of Neurology, vol. 267, iss. 1, (2020), pp. 144-152)Our aim is to compare olfactory and gustatory function and food preferences of patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) with controls. We included 22 patients with MCI, 30 patients with AD and 40 controls and assessed olfactory threshold, odor discrimination and odor identification (Sniffin' Sticks), gustatory functioning (Taste Strips), and food preferences (Macronutrient and Taste Preference Ranking Task). Linear regression analyses were used to study associations of five cognitive domains or AD biomarkers with olfactory functioning. Groups did not differ in olfactory threshold, gustatory function and food preferences. Patients with MCI and AD scored lower on odor discrimination and identification than controls. Poorer memory, but no other cognitive domain, was associated with poorer odor discrimination and odor identification, but not with odor threshold. No associations with AD biomarkers were found. In conclusion, patients with MCI and AD have poorer odor discrimination and identification ability than controls, but similar detection thresholds. This is likely a consequence of poorer memory rather than directly caused by AD pathology.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (Clinical Nutrition, vol. 39, iss. 10, (2020), pp. 3005-3013)Background & aims: A low muscle mass before start of treatment and loss of muscle mass during chemotherapy is related to adverse outcomes in patients with cancer. In this randomized controlled trial, the effect of nutritional counseling on change in muscle mass and treatment outcome in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer during first-line chemotherapy was studied. Methods: Patients scheduled for first-line chemotherapy (n = 107) were randomly assigned to individualized nutritional counseling by a dietitian (NC) or usual care (UC). NC was aimed at sufficient protein-and energy intake, supported by oral supplements or enteral feeding if indicated. Furthermore, physical activity was encouraged. Outcomes were assessed at baseline (T0) and the time of the first (T1) and second (T2) regular follow-up computed tomography scans. The proportion of patients with a clinically relevant decrease in skeletal muscle area of >6.0 cm(2), measured by computed tomography, was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included body weight, quality of life, treatment toxicity and progression free and overall survival. Results: A total of 107 patients were enrolled (mean age, 65 years (SD, 11 years), 63% male). Mean change in skeletal muscle area from T0 till T1 was -2.5 (SD, 9.5) cm(2), with no difference between NC versus UC (p = 0.891). The proportion of patients with a clinically relevant decrease in skeletal muscle area of >= 6.0 cm(2) did not differ (NC 30% versus UC 31%, p = 0.467). NC compared with UC had a significant positive effect on body weight (B coefficient 1.7, p = 0.045), progression free survival (p = 0.039) and overall survival (p = 0.046). Conclusions: NC of patients undergoing chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer had no effect on muscle mass. However, we found that NC may increase body weight and improve progression free survival and overall survival compared to UC in this group of patients. These findings need further evaluation in future clinical trials. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (Nutrients, vol. 12, iss. 3, (2020))Nutrition is one of the modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia, and is therefore highly relevant in the context of prevention. However, knowledge of dietary quality in clinical populations on the spectrum of AD dementia is lacking, therefore we studied the association between dietary quality and cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and controls. We included 357 participants from the NUDAD project (134 AD dementia, 90 MCI, 133 controls). We assessed adherence to dietary guidelines (components: vegetables, fruit, fibers, fish, saturated fat, trans-fat, salt, and alcohol), and cognitive performance (domains: memory, language, visuospatial functioning, attention, and executive functioning). In the total population, linear regression analyses showed a lower vegetable intake is associated with poorer global cognition, visuospatial functioning, attention and executive functioning. In AD dementia, lower total adherence to dietary guidelines and higher alcohol intake were associated with poorer memory, a lower vegetable intake with poorer global cognition and executive functioning, and a higher trans-fat intake with poorer executive functioning. In conclusion, a suboptimal diet is associated with more severely impaired cognition-this association is mostly attributable to a lower vegetable intake and is most pronounced in AD dementia.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (Clinical nutrition ESPEN, vol. 38, (2020), pp. 172-177)Background: Over the last decade, different screening tools for malnutrition have been developed. Within these tools, a distinction can be made between tools that assess nutritional risk and tools that assess protein energy malnutrition. Insights in differences in characteristics of participants at risk and in differences in prevalence rates will aid in deciding which tool(s) to use in daily practice. Methods: Dutch community-dwelling older adults (n = 200, 78.2 +/- 6.9 years), not known to have specific nutrition problems, were recruited to participate in this cross-sectional study. SNAQ(65+) (low risk vs moderate/high risk) was used to assess risk of protein energy malnutrition and SCREEN II was used to assess nutrition risk (score <54 out of 64). Chi-square tests were used to test associations between demographic, health, physical and social factors and outcome of SNAQ(65+) and SCREEN II. Results: Of all participants 69.0% were at nutrition risk (SCREEN II), while 13.5% were at risk of protein energy malnutrition (SNAQ(65+)). Agreement between the two tools was poor (kappa < 0.20). Gender, BMI, living status, income, activity level and protein/energy intake were associated with SCREEN II; age, BMI, comorbidities, medication use, help at home, activity level and low basic mobility were associated with SNAQ(65+). Conclusion: SCREEN II and SNAQ(65+) measure different concepts of malnutrition and therefore identify different persons at risk. SCREEN II is more inclusive and comprises both undernutrition and overnutrition as well as different determinants that can impact on food intake, while SNAQ(65+) is solely focused on protein-energy malnutrition. (C) 2020 European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (Healthcare, vol. 8, iss. 2, (2020))Undernutrition is highly prevalent among community-dwelling older adults. Early identification of nutrition risk is important to prevent or treat undernutrition. This study describes the prevalence rates of nutrition risk in community-dwelling older adults (aged >= 65) using the same validated tool across different countries and aims to identify differences in nutritional risk factors. Cross-sectional data was obtained from three datasets including participants from the Netherlands (NL), Canada (CA) and New Zealand (NZ). Seniors in the Community Risk Evaluation for Eating and Nutrition II (SCREEN II) was used to assess nutritional risk factors and prevalence of risk. Differences between countries were tested with logistic and linear regression. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to test the influence of sampling strategy. A total of 13,340 participants were included, and 66.3% were found to be at high nutrition risk. After stratifying the data for method of data sampling, prevalence rates showed some differences across countries (NL: 61.5%, NZ: 68.2%, CA: 70.1%). Risk factor items that contributed to nutrition risk also differed among countries: NZ and CA participants scored higher for weight change, skipping meals, problems with meal preparation, use of meal replacements, problems with biting and chewing, low fluid intake and problems with doing groceries, as compared to participants in NL. Low intake of fruits and vegetables and meat were more prevalent in NL. In conclusion: nutrition risk is a worldwide, highly prevalent problem among community-dwelling older adults, but risk factors contributing to nutrition risk differ by country.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (ALZHEIMERS RESEARCH & THERAPY, vol. 12, iss. 1, (2020))Background Malnutrition is common in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and is associated with institutionalization and increased mortality. Malnutrition is the result of a negative energy balance, which could be due to reduced dietary intake and/or higher energy expenditure. To study underlying mechanisms for malnutrition, we investigated dietary intake and resting energy expenditure (REE) of patients with AD dementia, MCI, and controls. In addition, we studied associations of global cognition (Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)) and AD biomarkers with dietary intake and REE. Methods We included 219 participants from the NUDAD project, 71 patients with AD dementia (age 68 +/- 8 years, 58% female, MMSE 24 +/- 3), 52 with MCI (67 +/- 8 years, 42% female, MMSE 26 +/- 2), and 96 controls (62 +/- 7 years, 52% female, MMSE 28 +/- 2). We used a 238-item food frequency questionnaire to assess dietary intake (energy, protein, carbohydrate, and fat). In a subgroup of 92 participants (30 patients with AD dementia, 22 with MCI, and 40 controls) we measured REE with indirect calorimetry. Between-group differences in dietary intake and REE were tested with ANOVAs. In the total sample, linear regression analyses were used to explore potential associations of MMSE score and AD biomarkers with dietary intake and REE. All analyses were adjusted for age, sex, education, and body mass index or fat-free mass. Results Patients with AD dementia and MCI did not differ from controls in total energy intake (1991 +/- 71 and 2172 +/- 80 vs 2022 +/- 61 kcal/day,p > 0.05) nor in protein, carbohydrate, or fat intake. Patients with AD dementia and MCI had a higher REE than controls (1704 +/- 41 and 1754 +/- 47 vs 1569 +/- 34 kcal/day,p < 0.05). We did not find any association of MMSE score or AD biomarkers with dietary intake or REE. Conclusions We found a higher REE, despite similar energy intake in patients with AD and MCI compared to controls. These findings suggest that elevated metabolism rather than reduced energy intake explains malnutrition in AD. These results could be useful to optimize dietary advice for patients with AD dementia and MCI.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, vol. 21, iss. 9, (2020), pp. 1216-1228)Objectives: The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to summarize the prevalence of, and association between, physical frailty or sarcopenia and malnutrition in older hospitalized adults. Design: A systematic literature search was performed in 10 databases. Setting and Participants: Articles were selected that evaluated physical frailty or sarcopenia and malnutrition according to predefined criteria and cutoffs in older hospitalized patients. Measures: Data were pooled in a meta-analysis to evaluate the prevalence of prefrailty and frailty [together (pre-)frailty], sarcopenia, and risk of malnutrition and malnutrition [together (risk of) malnutrition], and the association between either (pre-)frailty or sarcopenia and (risk of) malnutrition. Results: Forty-seven articles with 18,039 patients (55% female) were included in the systematic review, and 39 articles (8868 patients, 62% female) were eligible for the meta-analysis. Pooling 11 studies (2725 patients) revealed that 84% [95% confidence interval (CI): 77%, 91%, I-2 = 98.4%] of patients were physically (pre-)frail. Pooling 15 studies (4014 patients) revealed that 37% (95% CI: 26%, 48%, I-2 = 98.6%) of patients had sarcopenia. Pooling 28 studies (7256 patients) revealed a prevalence of 66% (95% CI: 58%, 73%, I-2 = 98.6%) (risk of) malnutrition. Pooling 10 studies (2427 patients) revealed a high association [odds ratio (OR): 5.77 (95% CI: 3.88, 8.58), P < .0001, I-2 = 42.3%] and considerable overlap (49.7%) between physical (pre-)frailty and (risk of) malnutrition. Pooling 7 studies (2506 patients) revealed a high association [OR: 4.06 (95% CI: 2.43, 6.80), P < .0001, I-2 = 71.4%] and considerable overlap (41.6%) between sarcopenia and (risk of) malnutrition. Conclusions and Implications: The association between and prevalence of (pre-)frailty or sarcopenia and (risk of) malnutrition in older hospitalized adults is substantial. About half of the hospitalized older adults suffer from 2 and perhaps 3 of these debilitating conditions. Therefore, standardized screening for these conditions at hospital admission is highly warranted to guide targeted nutritional and physical interventions. (C) 2020 AMDA - The Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (European Geriatric Medicine, vol. 11, iss. 1, (2020), pp. 169-177)Purpose The Joint Action Malnutrition in the Elderly (MaNuEL) Knowledge Hub was established to extend scientific knowledge, strengthen evidence-based practice, build a sustainable, transnational network of experts and harmonize research and clinical practice in the field of protein-energy malnutrition in older persons. This paper aims to summarize the main scientific results achieved during the 2-year project and to outline the recommendations derived. Methods 22 research groups from seven countries (Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, Spain, The Netherlands and New Zealand) worked together on 6 relevant domains of malnutrition-i.e. prevalence, screening, determinants, treatment, policy measures and education for health care professionals-making use of existing datasets, evidence and expert knowledge. Results Four systematic reviews, six secondary data analyses of existing cohort and intervention studies, two web-based surveys and one Delphi study were performed. In addition, a scoring system to rate malnutrition screening tools and a theoretical framework on the aetiology of malnutrition in older persons were developed. Based on these activities and taking existing evidence into consideration, 13 clinical practice, 9 research and 4 policy recommendations were developed. The MaNuEL Toolbox was created and made available to effectively distribute and disseminate the MaNuEL results and recommendations. Conclusions The MaNuEL Knowledge Hub successfully achieved its aims. Results and recommendations will support researchers, healthcare professionals, policy-makers as well as educational institutes to advance their efforts in tackling the increasing problem of protein-energy malnutrition in the older population. Key summary pointsAim To summarize the main scientific results achieved during the 2-year Joint Action Malnutrition in the Elderly (MaNuEL) project and to outline the recommendations derived. Findings Four systematic reviews, six secondary data analyses of existing cohort and intervention studies, two web-based surveys and one Delphi study were performed. In addition, a scoring system to rate malnutrition screening tools and a theoretical framework (DoMAP) on the aetiology of malnutrition in older persons were developed. Message The MaNuEL Toolbox was made available to effectively distribute and disseminate the MaNuEL results and recommendations, which will support researchers, healthcare professionals, policy-makers as well as educational institutes to advance their efforts in tackling the increasing problem of protein-energy malnutrition in the older population.
2020, Article / Letter to editor (Nutrients, vol. 12, iss. 12, (2020))Malnutrition is highly prevalent in patients with foregut tumors comprising head and neck (HNC) and esophageal (EC) cancers, negatively impacting outcomes. International evidence-based guidelines (EBGs) for nutrition care exist; however, translation of research evidence into practice commonly presents considerable challenges and consequently lags. This study aimed to describe and evaluate current international nutrition care practices compared with the best-available evidence for patients with foregut tumors who are at high risk of malnutrition. A multi-centre prospective cohort study enrolled 170 patients commencing treatment of curative intent for HNC (n = 119) or EC (n = 51) in 11 cancer care settings in North America, Europe and Australia between 2016 and 2018. Adherence criteria were derived from relevant EBG recommendations with pooled results for participating centres reported according to the Nutrition Care Model at either system or patient levels. Adherence to EBG recommendations was: good (>= 80%) for performing baseline nutrition screening and assessment, perioperative nutrition assessment and nutrition prescription for energy and protein targets; moderate (>= 60 to 80%) for utilizing validated screening and assessment tools and pre-radiotherapy dietitian consultation; and poor (60%) for initiating post-operative nutrition support within 24 h and also dietetic consultation weekly during radiotherapy and fortnightly for 6 weeks post-radiotherapy. In conclusion, gaps in evidence-based cancer nutrition care remain; however, this may be improved by filling known evidence gaps through high-quality research with a concurrent evolution of EBGs to also encompass practical implementation guidance. These should aim to support multidisciplinary cancer clinicians to close evidence-practice gaps throughout the patient care trajectory with clearly defined roles and responsibilities that also address patient-reported concerns.
2020, Article in monograph or in proceedings (42nd ESPEN Virtual Congress - Online, pp. 667)Rationale: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation is a promising therapy for cancer-relatedmalnutrition, which affects 20-70% of patients with cancer1,2. This systematic review aimed to examine the effects of oralomega-3 PUFA supplementation on muscle maintenance and quality of life in patients with cancer.
Methods: Randomised controlled trials in cancer patients aged >18 years were retrieved from 5 electronic databases;MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL (via EBSCOhost), and Web of Science, from database inceptionuntil 31st of December 2019. Trials supplementing ≥600 mg/d omega-3 PUFA (oral capsules, pure fish oil or oralnutritional supplements) or a control intervention for ≥3 weeks were included. Meta-analyses were performed in RevManto determine the mean differences (MD) in muscle mass and quality of life between omega-3 PUFA and control groupswith 95% confidence intervals (CI) and I2 for heterogeneity.
Results: We included 33 studies in patients with various types of cancers and degrees of malnutrition. The Cochrane riskof bias tool graded most trials as ‘unclear’ or ‘high’ risk of bias. Meta-analyses showed oral omega-3 PUFA supplementsimproved physical functioning (MD: 6.33; 95% CI: 0.32, 12.34, p=0.04; I2=0%) and potentially reduced fatigue (MD: -6.21;95% CI: -13.473, 1.05, p=0.09; I2=14%). However, there was no significant effect of omega-3 PUFA supplements on muscle mass, global health status, emotional functioning and symptoms (nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite anddiarrhoea).
Conclusion: This review provides evidence for the benefits of oral omega-3 PUFA supplementation on quality of life butnot on muscle maintenance in patients with cancer. Well-designed large-scale randomised controlled trials inhomogenous patient cohorts are required to confirm these findings.