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BackgroundVitamin A deficiency, iodine deficiency, and protein-energy malnutrition are prevalent malnutrition issues that disproportionately affect low-income countries and pose significant risks to the health and development of children and adolescents. This study offers a detailed examination of these deficiencies' prevalence trends and gender and regional variations using Global Burden of Disease Study data from 1990 to 2019. It also assesses the specific impact on various age groups, providing essential insights for targeted health interventions and policy-making.MethodsData spanning from 1990 to 2019 on Vitamin A deficiency, iodine deficiency, and protein-energy malnutrition were extracted from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study. Age-Standardized Incidence Rates (ASR) were computed by gender, region, and etiology, utilizing the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) to assess temporal trends.ResultsIn 2019, Central Sub-Saharan Africa had the highest prevalence of Vitamin A deficiency, particularly among males, and iodine deficiency peaked in the same region for both genders. South Asia had the highest incidence of protein-energy malnutrition for both genders. Regions with a low Socio-Demographic Index (SDI) showed lower ASR for these deficiencies. Notably, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, and Maldives recorded the highest ASR for vitamin A deficiency, iodine deficiency, and protein-energy malnutrition, respectively. The declining ASR trend for vitamin A deficiency, especially among males, suggests effective interventions. East Asia saw a significant increase in iodine deficiency ASR from 1990 to 2019, particularly among women, requiring targeted interventions. The rising ASR of protein-energy malnutrition in several regions, especially among men, raises concerns. Vitamin A deficiency primarily affected children and adolescents, iodine deficiency predominantly impacted adolescents and young adults, and protein-energy malnutrition was chiefly observed among children under 5 years old. These findings underscore the necessity for tailored interventions considering age-specific nutritional needs and challenges.

Post-Covid-19 Syndrome (PCS) is a condition that causes persistent symptoms and impacts nutritional status such as loss of muscle mass. The objective of this study was to review and map scientific evidence on nutritional management in the loss of muscle mass in patients with PCS. The scoping review protocol was prepared following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Review articles not written in English or those that included only hospitalized patients and pertained to conditions other than PCS were excluded. Data extraction followed the methodology outlined by the Cochrane Review Group. Of the 81 articles initially identified, only five met the inclusion criteria. The selected studies emphasized the importance of recovering muscle mass, higher protein and caloric intake, and physical strength exercises. Consequently, nutritional interventions aimed at mitigating muscle mass loss should prioritize strategies that increase caloric and protein consumption.

IntroductionEarly childhood malnutrition affects 200+ million children under 5 years of age worldwide and is associated with persistent cognitive, behavioral and psychiatric impairments in adulthood. However, very few studies have investigated the long-term effects of childhood protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) on brain function using a functional hemodynamic brain imaging technique.Objective and methodsThis study aims to investigate functional brain network alterations using near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in adults, aged 45–51 years, from the Barbados Nutrition Study (BNS) who suffered from a single episode of malnutrition restricted to their first year of life (n = 26) and controls (n = 29). A total of 55 individuals from the BNS cohort underwent NIRS recording at rest.Results and discussionUsing functional connectivity and permutation analysis, we found patterns of increased Pearson’s correlation with a specific vulnerability of the frontal cortex in the PEM group (ps < 0.05). Using a graph theoretical approach, mixed ANCOVAs showed increased segregation (ps = 0.0303 and 0.0441) and decreased integration (p = 0.0498) in previously malnourished participants compared to healthy controls. These results can be interpreted as a compensatory mechanism to preserve cognitive functions, that could also be related to premature or pathological brain aging. To our knowledge, this study is the first NIRS neuroimaging study revealing brain function alterations in middle adulthood following early childhood malnutrition limited to the first year of life.

Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a persistent public health challenge in most developing countries. This study investigated the protein nutritional value of wheat and wheat-sorghum biscuits fortified with longhorn grasshopper (Ruspolia differens) to determine their suitability as a supplementary food. Fourteen diets were fed to male weanling Sprague-Dawley rats, including 11 isonitrogenous diets with 10% protein prepared from 10 biscuit variations and skimmed milk powder as a reference, 1 protein-free diet, and 2 rehabilitation diets made with wheat and wheat-sorghum biscuits fortified with 40% Ruspolia differens powder (RDP). The protein efficiency ratio, food efficiency ratio, true and apparent protein digestibility, and net protein retention ratio results for the fortified biscuit diets were all negative, with the exception of wheat biscuits supplemented with RDP 40%. The isonitrogenous diets maintained the rats with no substantial weight gain or loss. Rats on rehabilitation diets gained weight rapidly, by 61% and 69% for wheat-sorghum and wheat diets, respectively. Weight increase during rehabilitation was considerably higher (P < 0.05) by 50% and 54.6% in wheat-sorghum and wheat diet groups compared to normal growth phases. The rehabilitated rats had a greater percentage of body weight than the experimental groups. The protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) of fortified biscuits ranged from 26% to 33% for wheat biscuits and 22% to 32% for wheat-sorghum biscuits. The digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS) of the fortified biscuits varied from 47% to 60% for wheat biscuits and 44% to 60% for wheat-sorghum biscuits. As a result, the fortified biscuits fell short of the minimum requirements of 70% for PDCAAS and 75% for DIAAS in fortified protein diets. Furthermore, it appears that substituting 10% RDP to wheat-sorghum and wheat biscuits does not promote rat growth. Fortification with 40% RDP, on the other hand, dramatically improves rat’s growth and rehabilitation. Because of their high protein nutritional content, the biscuits fortified with 40% RDP could be used as a supplementary to help rehabilitate malnourished children.

Background Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a common nutritional deficiency. With the change of lifestyle and eating habits, people pay increasing attention to nutritional health problems, and PEM may have different effects on the health of different age groups. Objective To analyze the overall and age-specific trends of PEM incidence in 1990-2019 and to predict its incidence in 2020-2029 in China. Methods The data of this study were derived from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019, involving mortality indicators, and incidence indicators in 18 age groups (ranged from 0 to over 85 years grouped by an interval of 5 years) of PEM in China from 1990 to 2019. The age-standardized rates were calculated using the world standard population. Joinpoint regression analysis was used to calculate the annual percentage change (APC) and annual average percentage change (AAPC) of the incidence rate and 95% confidence interval, and to describe the temporal trend. The autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model was used to predict the incidence of PEM in China from 2020 to 2029. Results (1) In 2019, the standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of PEM in the whole population of China was 1 996.5/100 000, and that in males (2 444.7/100 000) was higher than that in females (1 536.0/100 000) . The SIR of PEM in the whole population in China was lower than that of the world standard population (2 099.4/100 000) , and that of PEM in Chinese males was higher than that in the world standard male population (2 304.0/100 000) . The incidence of PEM was highest in

Background: Selenium is an essential trace element with an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity that has been associated in experimental studies with beneficial effects on appetite control, the regulation of the gut microbiota, and control of the anabolic–catabolic balance. The main aim of the present study was to evaluate the association between circulating selenium concentrations and the risk of developing undernutrition in older adults. Methods: This was a cohort study with 1398 well-nourished community-dwelling individuals aged ≥ 65 years residing in Spain in 2017, who were followed for a mean of 2.3 years. Whole blood selenium was measured at baseline using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Undernutrition was assessed at baseline and at follow-up, and defined as having at least one of the three GLIM phenotypic criteria (involuntary weight loss, a low body mass index, and a reduced muscle mass) and at least one of the two etiologic criteria (reduced food consumption or nutrient assimilation and inflammation/disease burden). Results: During the follow-up, 142 participants (11%) developed moderate undernutrition and 113 (8.8%) severe undernutrition. The standardized relative risks of moderate and severe undernutrition at the 75th percentile of Se levels versus the 25th were 0.90 and 0.70, respectively. In dose–response analyses, the risk of severe undernutrition decreased linearly with increasing selenium concentrations. This association was independent of protein intake or diet quality and was stronger among participants with a diagnosis of a musculoskeletal disorder. Conclusions: The results suggest that an adequate dietary selenium status is needed to prevent undernutrition in older adults. Also, this may open the door for clinical trials with selenium supplementation, at doses considered as safe, to prevent undernutrition.

Aim. Current clinical recommendations address the epidemiology, causes, clinical manifestations and pathogenesis of possible immediate and long-term complications, as well as the problematic issues related to treatment and rehabilitation of adult short bowel syndrome patients.Key points. Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a symptom complex of impaired digestion caused by the reduction of small intestine absorptive surface and manifested by intestinal failure (IF) of various severity (maldigestion and malabsorption) developing into malnutrition and systemic somatogenic disorders. The vital strategic aspects of its treatment are the personalisation of liquid, macro- and micronutrients consumption as well as avoidance of intestinal failure- and parenteral nutrition-associated complications. Various nutritional support regimes and the indications for infusion therapy and maintenance parenteral nutrition are considered in this patient category, also in outpatient settings. To mitigate the dependence on intravenous fluid- and nutrient administration and attain enteral autonomy in SBS-IF patients, the use of recombinant glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) is justified as exerting a pronounced trophic effect on the epithelial regenerative potential as well as structural and functional adaptation of intestinal mucosa. The SBS-IF patients prescribed with home parenteral nutrition and/or their caregivers should be trained in a special programme that covers the catheter care, preparation of infusion solutions and nutrient mixture container, infusion pump operation as well as the prevention, recognition and management of complications. The main referral indications for small bowel transplantation (SBT) are: fast-progressing cholestatic liver disease-complicated irreversible intestinal failure; thrombosis of two or more central venous conduits used for parenteral nutrition; recurrent catheter-associated bloodstream infection.Conclusion. Current recommendations on diagnosis and treatment as well as the developed criteria of medical aid quality assessment are applicable at different levels of healthcare.

Abstract Background The prevalence of severe acute malnutrition among children ( 70%). Functional properties varied from 0.61 to 0.83, 124.2 to 176.2, 102.2 to 257.19, 0 to 1 and 164.7 to 373.3 for bulk density, oil absorption capacity, water absorption capacity, least gelation and swelling capacity, respectively. Antioxidant activity of formulated complementary foods ranged from 2.07 to 3.24%, 8.61 to 9.87 mg/g, 21.6 to 40.95% and 62.42 to 87.0% for DPPH, FRAP, Fe-chelation and OH-free radicals, respectively, and were significantly (p

Background. Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is an established risk factor of postoperative complications in orthopedic disorders, including arthroplasty of the large joints. The study aimed to evaluate PEM prevalence and its association with the early postoperative revision in patients with the difficult-to-treat (DTT) prosthetic joint infection (PJI) of the hip. Methods. The retrospective study included 132 patients with chronic DTT PJI of the hip. The patients underwent orthopedic implant removal, radical debridement of the infected tissues, and resection arthroplasty with non-free transplantation of an axial vastus lateralis muscle flap (n = 57) or installation of an antimicrobial spacer (n = 75). DTT PJI was defined as an infection caused by rifampicin-resistant staphylococcal strains, ciprofloxacin-resistant gram-negative bacteria, fungi of the genus Candida, and their associations. The assessment of the patients protein-energy status included the evaluation of reference laboratory parameters, such as levels of hemoglobin, total protein, and albumin and number of lymphocytes. The degree of PEM was determined by the number of laboratory markers below the threshold values. The statistical comparison was performed using Fishers test. The odds ratio (OR, 95% confidence interval [CI]) was calculated to assess the risk of PJI recurrence. Differences were considered significant at p0.05. Results. More than 70% of patients with chronic DTT PJI included in the study were diagnosed with preoperative PEM of varying degrees of severity. Hypoalbuminemia and decreased hemoglobin levels were diagnosed more often: 64.3% and 57.1% in the muscle flap plasty and 57.3% and 31.1% in the antimicrobial spacer group, respectively. In muscle plasty and antimicrobial spacer groups, a decrease in the values of three or more reference PEM markers was detected in 28.5% and 16.0% of patients, and this advanced impairment of the nutritional status increased the risk of early revision intervention by two (OR 2.0; CI 95% 0.478.56; p = 0.35) and six times (OR 6.11; 95% CI 1.0635.35; p0.04), respectively. Conclusion. In general, the analysis of publications and results of our study show that PEM is associated with the development of surgical site infection and recurrence of PJI after revision surgery. A decrease in the values of three or more reference PEM markers is a significant predictor of repeated revisions after debridement surgery with the installation of an antimicrobial spacer. PEM complicates the postoperative course in patients with resection arthroplasty. Given the high incidence of PEM in patients with DTT PJI of the hip joint, further research is needed to develop methods for nutritional status correction and assessment of their effect on the outcomes of debridement surgery.

This review article focuses on the dermatologic manifestations of selected nutrient deficiencies, including protein-energy and micronutrient-related malnutrition. The various nutrient deficiencies presented may share common features. However, distinctive cutaneous signs may prompt clinicians to consider a nutritional cause and help distinguish a nutrient deficiency from other common dermatologic conditions. The recent reemergence of forgotten nutritional deficiencies, such as scurvy and pellagra, in the context of predisposing risk factors that may uniquely affect women more than men makes this topic timely. Recognition of nutritional disorders is important because appropriate treatment may reverse cutaneous signs and prevent irreversible sequelae.

Abstract Protein‐energy malnutrition (PEM) is most prevalent and affecting a large number of children in Pakistan. Ready‐to‐use therapeutic food (RUTF) is a tackling strategy to overcome the PEM in Pakistan. The present research was designed to formulate RUTF from different indigenous sources. After conducting some preliminary trials, 14 RUTF formulations were developed by mixing peanut, mung bean, and chickpea alone as well as in various combinations with the addition of sugar, powdered milk, oil, and vitamin‐mineral premix. Freshly prepared RUTF was stored at room temperature (20 ± 5°C) and packed in aluminum foil for 90 days to investigate the microbiological analysis (total plate count and mold count), water activity (Aw), peroxide value, and thiobarbituric acid (TBA) value. All the parameters showed significant (p

Children with protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) need a food product that can be easily absorbed by the body because they have impaired nutrient utilization and lipid profile disorder. The provision of fermented products such as tempeh is an alternative approach. Seeds of tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC) Merr.) are a good source of various nutrients needed by children with PEM. This study aimed to prove the effectiveness of the administration of tempeh flour from tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC) Merr.) seeds on the lipid profile in PEM rats. PEM in rats was induced by a zero-protein diet containing granulated sugar (20 g), vegetable oil (1 g), and cornstarch (24 g). The animals were categorized into a normal control group (K+), a PEM group without treatment (K−); a group fed tempeh flour from tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC) Merr.) seeds 1.5 g.kg-1 BW (P1); and a group fed tempeh flour from tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC) Merr.) seeds 3 g.kg-1 BW (P2). The intervention was administered for 30 days. There was a significant increase in HDL levels (p = 0.001) and significant decreases in cholesterol (p = 0.001), triglyceride (p = 0.001), LDL levels (p = 0.001), and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) (p = 0.000) in treatment groups. In conclusion, the administration of tempeh flour from tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC) Merr.) seeds increases HDL levels and decreases cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL level, and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) in rats with PEM.

Frailty is a geriatric syndrome caused by a decrease in multi ⁃ system physiological reserve and function, which reduces the elderly's ability to stress the internal and external environment and maintain homeostasis, and increases the risk of adverse health events. The incidence of frailty and pre ⁃ frailty in stroke patients is the highest and significantly higher than that in non ⁃ stroke patients, while the prevalence of cerebrovascular disease in frailty patients is also significantly increased and the prognosis is worse. This paper intends to review the potential association between frailty and cerebrovascular disease.

Malnutrition is a common finding in alcohol use disorders and is associated with the prognosis of patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD). These patients also frequently show deficiencies in vitamins and trace elements, increasing the likelihood of anemia and altered cognitive status. The etiology of malnutrition in ALD patients is multifactorial and complex and includes inadequate dietary intake, abnormal absorption and digestion, increased skeletal and visceral protein catabolism, and abnormal interactions between ethanol and lipid metabolism. Most nutritional measures derive from general chronic liver disease recommendations. Recently, many patients with ALD have been diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, which requires individualized treatment via nutritional therapy to avoid overnutrition. As ALD progresses to cirrhosis, it is frequently complicated by protein–energy malnutrition and sarcopenia. Nutritional therapy is also important in the management of ascites and hepatic encephalopathy as liver failure progresses. The purpose of the review is to summarize important nutritional therapies for the treatment of ALD.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The protein-energy malnutrition alters the prognosis of patients with cirrhosis. Its prevalence may vary according to the etiology of liver disease, it´s severity and the evaluation of the method applied. The infection by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) and alcoholism are the main etiologies of cirrhosis and result in a significant morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the nutritional status of patients with cirrhosis according the liver disease etiology and severity. METHODS: It is a prospective study, in which the sample was for convenience and consisted of patients with cirrhosis, infected by HCV or alcoholic etiology. The nutritional status evaluation was carried out through anthropometry, food consumption, bioelectrical impedance (BIA) and subjective global assessment (SGA). The anthropometric data evaluated were weight, height, body mass index (BMI), triceps skinfold (TSF), circumference of the arm (CA), non-dominant handshake strength (FAM) and the adductor pollicis muscle thickness (APM). Patients were classified according to the severity of liver disease, using the Child-Pugh and Model for End-stage Liver Diseases (MELD) scores. RESULTS: Ninety patients with cirrhosis were evaluated, 47 with HCV and 43 with alcoholic etiology. The prevalence of protein-calorie malnutrition ranged from 10.9% to 54.3% in the HCV group and from 4.7% to 20.9% in the alcoholic group, depending on the method used for evaluation. The group with HCV infection presented a higher malnutrition prevalence in comparison to the alcoholic in the following evaluations: TSF (P

Background: Protein-energy malnutrition and vitamin A deficiency (VAD) are the most important public health issues, and a food-based strategy is crucial to combat those health problems among the vulnerable group of people. Methods: Composite biscuits were made with 100:0:0, 90:5:5, 80:10:10, 70:15:15, 60:20:20, and 50:25:25 percent wheat, haricot bean, and orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) flours.Standard methods were used to evaluate the proximate compositions, β-carotene, physical properties, functional properties, and sensory acceptability. A one-way analysis of variance model was used to statistically evaluate the data using the statistical analysis system software package, version 9.0 standard methods. Results: The results showed that partially replacing wheat with haricot beans and OFSP increased the β-carotene and proximate compositions significantly. When wheat was replaced with haricot beans and OFSP, the physical characteristics of the biscuits did not vary significantly from those of biscuits made entirely of wheat flour. Sensory acceptability (appearance, color, flavor, taste and overall acceptability) was higher in the composite biscuits with up to 40% wheat substitution than in the 100% wheat flour biscuits. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this report, replacing wheat with OFSP and haricot beans in biscuit formulation appears to be promising in improving nutritional quality, sensory acceptability, and beta carotene. It is proposed that these products can mitigate food insecurity and deficiency of vitamin A.

Abstract Background A study involving children from Alagoas (Northeast Brazil) revealed that, as a consequence of a drastic reduction in the prevalence of stunting between 1992 to 2005, (22.5 to 11.4%) combined with an increase in overweight prevalence (6.7 to 9.3%), the prevalence of these two conditions in 2005 was very close. If these trends were maintained, it is very likely that, at this time, the childhood overweight prevalence has already exceeded that of the stunting. However, no study is available to confirm this hypothesis. The identification of these changes is relevant to the planning and evaluation of public policies. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, time trends and associated factors with stunting and overweight in children from Alagoas. Methods Independent cross-sectional household surveys were conducted in 1992 (n = 1231), 2005 (n = 1381) and 2015 (n = 988). Data were collected from probabilistic samples of children aged 0–60 months. Stunting was defined by stature-for-age 2 sd. Results Between 1992, 2005 and 2015, the stunting prevalence was 22.6, 11.2 and 3.2% (reduction of 85.8%), while the overweight prevalence was 6.9, 7.5 and 14.9% (increase of 115.9%), respectively. After multivariate analysis, the following positive associations with stunting were observed in 1992: age group > 24 months (28.3% vs 14.5%), mother with ≥2 children (28.8% vs 12.8%), low birth weight (28.3% vs 15.7%) and mother with low schooling (29.3% vs 7.2%). In 2015 there was a higher prevalence of stunting in males (4.2% vs 2.2%), in children 4 kg was associated to overweight (27.3% vs 14.2%). Conclusions During the analyzed period, there was a significant decrease in stunting prevalence. At the same time, a substantial increase was observed in the overweight prevalence. Currently, stunting is a problem of low magnitude, while overweight has become a worrying public health problem.

Frailty, as a kind of geriatric syndrome, increases adverse health outcomes such as falls, depression, deformity, disability and death in the elderly. The pathogenesis of frailty is not yet clear, and chronic inflammation is considered to be the main mechanism for its occurrence and development. Inflammation induces frailty by leading to sarcopenia, obesity, a variety of chronic diseases and immune dysfunction. Nutrition support, drug therapy and exercise intervention can reduce the level of inflammatory factors, reduce the inflammatory response, thus promoting muscle growth, reduce obesity, have a certain improvement effect on frailty. DOI：10.3969/j.issn.1672⁃6731.2020.01.010

Context: Malnutrition is considered worldwide as an important burden because it provokes serious damage in several physiological and metabolic mechanisms, among them the hepatic function. Currently, natural products are being used to reduce the negative impact of some pathological disorders in liver. Pleurotus genus of edible mushrooms has shown a wide spectrum of medicinal effects, but its role in the management of liver complications associated to malnutrition is not clear. Aims: To evaluate the restoration of hepatic function in BALB/c malnourished mice, orally administered with a crude water extract (CW-P) from Pleurotus ostreatus fruiting bodies. Methods: Animals (8-week old female BALB/c mice) were starved for 3 days and then refed with commercial diet supplemented with or without CW-P (100 mg/kg) for 8 days. Serum ALP, GGT and amylase activities, hepatic enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP, LDH, GGT), and liver histological examination were assayed. Results: CW-P (34.3 % proteins, 42.6 % carbohydrates and 3.8 g/ 100 g of phenolics) administered to malnourished mice: (i) increased total serum proteins concentration that was correlated with the stimulation in liver protein anabolism, (ii) alleviated hepatic damage markers such as decrease serum ALP levels as well as, in ALP, GGT y AST activities in liver samples, and (iii) improved liver histological architecture similar to control group with decreased lipid accumulation. Conclusions: CW-P supplementation favored liver restoration in malnourished mice. Nutritional interventions with this mushroom extract may be suggested to prevent liver complications associated to malnutrition.

Background: The degree and distribution of malnutrition depends on several factors; political and economic situation, education, environment, food pattern, cultural believes, etc. Dalits are the people who are religiously, culturally, socially and economically oppressed, excluded and treated as untouchables; and they belong to different geographical region, language, culture and castes. Therefore, their children are more prone to poor health and various kinds of diseases including malnutrition. So, the present study aimed to assess the prevalence of Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM) among under-five dalit children and the factors associated with it. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 238 under-five dalit children in four selected VDCs of Morang District using cluster sampling technique. Data were collected using interview schedule and anthropometric measurements. Data analysis was done using statistical Package for social sciences (SPSS) version 11.5. Results: Out of 238 children, one-fourth of them belong to age group 12-23 months and more than half (52.9%) were male. The prevalence of PEM was assessed in terms of underweight, stunting and wasting and was found to be 16.8%, 11.3% and 14.7% respectively. Underweight was found to be statistically significant with father’s educational level and antenatal care visit of the mother. Stunting was found to be statistically significant with mother’s occupation and wasting was found to be significant with age of the child, type of family, weaning and distance of the health facility. Conclusion: Prevalence of Protein-energy malnutrition was found to be higher in those children with nuclear family, illiterate parents, poor antenatal care, delayed weaning practices and availability of health facility.

Background: Oral nutritional supplements (ONS) are recommended for patients who are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition. Appropriate ONS prescribing requires regular monitoring to assess its continued requirement. Previous research identified long-term ONS prescriptions (>6 months) without review, with 70% of these influenced by social factors. Aim: To investigate the characteristics of long-term ONS users in Ireland and the determinants of larger volumes of ONS dispensing. Design & setting: Secondary analysis of anonymous dispensed pharmacy claims data of patients dispensed standard ONS for 12 consecutive months in 2018 (n = 912). Method: Factors showing significant (P

Cerebral small vascular disease (cSVD) and frailty are common in the elderly, and they tend to co-exist with similar risk factors. It is important to understand the etiology and pathogenesis of cSVD and frailty,and focus on the research frontier problems. Meanwhile,early diagnosis and intervention of these two diseases can help to improve health and quality of life.

Background: Statistical data on the prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of protein–energy malnutrition are valuable for health resource planning and policy-making. We aimed to estimate protein–energy malnutrition burdens worldwide according to gender, age, and sociodemographic index (SDI) between 1990 and 2019. Methods: Detailed data on protein–energy malnutrition from 1990 to 2019 was extracted from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. The global prevalence, deaths, and DALYs attributable to protein–energy malnutrition and the corresponding age-standardized rates (ASRs) were analyzed. Results: In 2019, the global prevalence of protein–energy malnutrition increased to 14,767,275 cases. The age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) showed an increasing trend between 1990 and 2019, while the age-standardized deaths rate (ASDR) and age-standardized DALYs rate presented a significantly decreasing trend in the same period. Meanwhile, there was a clearly ASPR, ASDR, and age-standardized DALYs rate downtrend of the prediction curve when the SDI went up. Conclusions: PEM still has a relatively serious disease burden in the world, especially in children and the elderly. At the same time, this phenomenon will be more obvious due to the aging of the world’s population. Effective prevention measures should be strengthened to continuously improve public health conditions.

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the clinical profile of neurotuberculosis in the age group of 6 months to 10 years and its association with biochemical analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and neuroradiological findings. Methods: Retrospective assessment of the medical records of confirmed cases of neurotuberculosis from January 2010 to June 2014 was carried out. Results: Of the 46 cases studied, mean age at presentation was 3.4 years. Male-to-female ratio was 1.55:1. Fever, vomiting, headache, seizures, and focal neurological deficits were the most common presenting clinical symptoms. Protein–energy malnutrition (PEM) was detected in 39 cases. On systemic examination, the order of involvement of cranial nerves was VII, II, III, IV, VI, and V. Positive Mantoux test was present in only 11 cases. CSF findings showed lymphocytic predominance, raised protein levels with a decreased to normal glucose levels. Neuroimaging by computed tomography scan/magnetic resonance imaging of the brain gave a definite diagnosis in thirty cases of which hydrocephalus, basal exudates, tuberculoma, and infarctions were the most common findings. The primary focus of tuberculosis was found in the lungs on chest roentgenogram in 12 cases. Conclusions: Neurotuberculosis occurs with increased frequency in the age group of 1–5 years. Fever may be of short duration at presentation in contradiction to current medical literature. PEM is a predisposing factor for the development of the disease. A tuberculin sensitivity test may be negative in cases of neurotuberculosis. CSF analysis and neuroimaging are pivotal in the establishment of a diagnosis.

Progressive weight loss is a frequent companion to somatic pathology. The risk of death is known to increase dramatically among those with a body mass index of less than 19 kg/m. Even mild weight loss in the presence of severe diseases can have a substantial impact on the course of the disease. The paper presents current views on malnutrition, its prevalence in the presence of various somatic diseases, and clinical significance. It describes the basic pathogenetic components of weight loss and the possible ways of correcting nutritional status. Particular emphasis is placed on the methods of nutritional support that is currently regarded as one of the most important components of a comprehensive approach to treating patients with chronic diseases. The authors give recommendations for the assessment of the nutritional status of patients in clinical practice and algorithms for their malnutrition management.

Objective. In this study, we focus on elderly people (≥70 years old) benefiting from a home delivery meal service as part of a social welfare program. We aimed to: (i) assess the gap between the recommended and actual nutritional intake in this population and (ii) study the relationship between the intake of nutrients and the variables characterizing the participants’ health and nutritional status. Design. A dietary survey (24-hour record) was conducted during a home interview, with 64 people receiving a home delivery meal service (75% women; 70–97 years old). At the same time, the participants answered questionnaires assessing their nutritional and health status. Results. Our data showed that the consumption of 70 to 80% participants was not sufficient for reaching the nutritional recommendations for energy and macronutrients. Additionally, the data showed that the lower the energy and protein intakes, the higher the risk of malnutrition. In addition, one third of the participants were both overweight or obese and at risk of undernutrition or undernourished. Our study demonstrated that the heavier the person, the more difficult it was for them to meet the nutritional recommendations based on kilograms of body weight. Finally, individuals receiving two to three delivered meals per day had higher energy and protein intakes than those receiving a single meal. Conclusion. These results suggest that it is important that home meal delivery companies improve the quality of their meals and service so that their recipients can better meet nutritional recommendations.

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) was performed for the first time in the world on 12 June 1979. At present, the method of using gastrostomy has almost entirely superseded classical methods, which is related with its simplicity, lower costs, lack of need for hospital stay (PEG is often placed in ambulatory conditions) or a shorter period of hospitalisation, as well as a smaller number of complications compared to classical methods. The indications for gastrostomy are possibilities of feeding directly into the gastrointestinal tract, avoiding the oral cavity, throat, and oesophagus (for various reasons), or decompression of the gastrointestinal tract in the case of its obstruction as a palliative procedure. Gastrostomy may be performed by a classical open technique or by laparoscopic or endoscopic methods. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy is the most common form of gastrostomy.

The article presents the problems of nutritional rehabilitation of patients with anorexia nervosa, methods for evaluation of nutritional status, eating behavior, weight restoration and weight gain rates, stages of treatment, enteral nutrition.

Background: chronic kidney disease in hemodialysis it associated with an inadequate state of nutrition.Objective: to characterize the nutritional state of patients with chronic kidney disease attended to at the hemodialysis unit of the “Manuel Ascunce Domenech” Hospital of the province of Camagüey, from September 2015 to September 2016.Methods: a descriptive and transversal study was conducted on the nutritional state of patients with chronic kidney disease attended to at the hemodialysis unit of the aforementioned hospital and during the period herein declared. Out of a universe of 135 patients a sample of 60 was selected, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The nutritional assessment was based on anthropometric parameters: postdialysis body weight, size, brachial circumference, triceps skin fold, body mass index and arm muscle area; as well as on biochemical parameters such as hematocrit, cholesterol, triglycerides, albumin, total proteins, serum iron and creatinine. Results: in the sample there was a prevalence in the 50 to 60 age group (35 %) and of the male sex, with a higher incidence of malnutrition in patients older than 65 years (73,3 %). The slight and moderate forms prevailed in men and the severe form prevailed in women. 63,3 % of the patients presented some type of malnutrition. The biochemical markers showed a deterioration as the time of hemodialysis progressed. Of the diseases associated with malnutrition hepatitis C was the highest one (78,3 %), followed by infections (28,3 %). Conclusions: caloric malnutrition prevailed. The degree of malnutrition revealed a positive correlation with age, hemodialysis time, frequency of the associated diseases and deterioration in the average values of the biochemical markers.

Background: Some studies have shown the possible role of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) in persistence of endemic goiter in iodine replenished areas. The present study was conducted to assess the association between PEM and goiter in schoolchildren of Isfahan, Iran. Methods: In a cross-sectional study using multistage cluster random-sampling, 2331 schoolchildren with age ranged from 6-13 years old with a female to male ratio of 1.60 were enrolled. Thyroid size was examined by two endocrinologists for goiter detection. Children were considered goitrous if they had palpable or visible goiters according to World Health Organization (WHO)/United Nations children′s Fund/International Council for the Control of Iodine Deficiency criteria. Weight and standing height were measured using the standard tools and anthropometric indices were calculated using the WHO AnthroPlus software developed by the World Health Organization. Height-for-age Z-scores (HAZ), weight-for-age Z-scores (WAZ) and body mass index (BMI) for age were calculated for each child. Children with a HAZ, WAZ or BMI-for-age of Z-score < -2.0 were classified as stunted, underweight or thin, respectively. Blood samples were drowned to measure serum thyroid hormones. Results: Overall, 32.9% of subjects were classified as goitrous. Weight, height, BMI, WAZ and BMI-for-age Z-score were significantly lower in children with goiter than in children who did not have goiter (P < 0.05). The prevalence of goiter in thin children was higher than that in non-thin ones (48.4 vs. 31.6%, odds ratio [OR]: 2.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.52-2.69, P < 0.001). Although 33.4% of non-stunted children were goitrous, 31% of stunted ones had goiter (P = 0.5). According to the logistic regression model taking sex and age as covariates, the only significant parameter affecting palpable goiter detection was thinness (OR = 2.13, 95% CI: 1.22-3.69, P < 0.001). Conclusions: In the present study, we found a high prevalence of goiter in children who were malnourished. It seems that PEM may play a role in the still high prevalence of goiter in this region.

Cirrhosis patients often have abnormal glucose metabolism. We investigated the effects of a late-evening snack (LES) with branched-chain amino acid-enriched nutrients (BCAA-EN) on glucose metabolism in cirrhosis patients. LES with BCAA-EN was administered for 1 week in 13 patients with cirrhosis and hypoalbuminemia. Blood glucose (BG) levels were measured every 15 min. The patients were divided into two groups based on BG levels: group 1 (G1, n = 11): nocturnal BG levels n = 2): nocturnal BG levels ≥200 mg/dL. G1 had nocturnal BG levels p < 0.01). The glycated albumin level (16.6 ± 0.9% vs. 16.2 ± 2.1%), fasting immunoreactive insulin (F-IRI) level (53.9 ± 34.0 μU/mL vs. 16.5 ± 11.0 μU/mL), and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) score (17.85 ± 10.58 vs. 4.02 ± 2.59) were significantly higher in G2 than in G1 (p < 0.05, p < 0.05, and p < 0.01, respectively). The quantitative insulin sensitivity check indices (0.32 ± 0.03 vs. 0.27 ± 0.02) were significantly higher in G1 than in G2 (p < 0.01). One patient in G2 was obese and had type 2 diabetes. The other patient was obese and had a high HOMA-IR score and F-IRI level. A LES with BCAA-EN does not inhibit overt diabetes in most cirrhosis patients. However, close attention should be paid to fluctuations in BG levels in cirrhosis patients who present with obesity and severe insulin resistance.

The aim of this study was to describe time trends in stunting and obesity in children under five years of age in Alagoas State, Brazil. Two surveys were conducted with representative samples, the first in 1992 (n = 1,228) and the second in 2005 (n = 1,384). Stunting was defined as height-for-age < -2 standard deviations and obesity as weight-for-height > 2 standard deviations. Prevalence of stunting decreased from 22.5% to 11.4% (PR = 0.50; 95%CI: 0.42; 0.60), while obesity increased from 6.7% to 9.3% (PR = 1.36; 95%CI: 1.04; 1.77). During the same period there was a decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in the proportions of the following variables: rural residence, households without running water, households with more than four members, mothers with more than two children, low birth weight, and mother's lack of access to prenatal care. Adjustment for these variables significantly reduced the magnitude of associations, and the 95% confidence included 1.0, suggesting that changes in the prevalence of stunting and obesity were mediated by these characteristics. During the period, there was a striking reduction in the prevalence of stunting and an increase in the frequency of obesity.

The aim of this study was to describe time trends in stunting and obesity in children under five years of age in Alagoas State, Brazil. Two surveys were conducted with representative samples, the first in 1992 (n = 1,228) and the second in 2005 (n = 1,384). Stunting was defined as height-for-age < -2 standard deviations and obesity as weight-for-height > 2 standard deviations. Prevalence of stunting decreased from 22.5% to 11.4% (PR = 0.50; 95%CI: 0.42; 0.60), while obesity increased from 6.7% to 9.3% (PR = 1.36; 95%CI: 1.04; 1.77). During the same period there was a decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in the proportions of the following variables: rural residence, households without running water, households with more than four members, mothers with more than two children, low birth weight, and mother's lack of access to prenatal care. Adjustment for these variables significantly reduced the magnitude of associations, and the 95% confidence included 1.0, suggesting that changes in the prevalence of stunting and obesity were mediated by these characteristics. During the period, there was a striking reduction in the prevalence of stunting and an increase in the frequency of obesity.Se tuvo por objetivo describir la tendencia temporal del déficit de estatura y de la obesidad en menores de 5 años de Alagoas, Brasil. Dos encuestas con muestras representativas fueron realizados en 1992 (n = 1.228) y 2005 (n = 1.384). El déficit de estatura fue definido por la altura/edad < -2 desvíos-padrón y obesidad por peso/altura > 2 desvíos-padrón. La prevalencia de déficit de estatura cambió de un 22,5% a un 11,4% RP = 0,50; IC95%: 0,42; 0,60), mientras que la de obesidad pasó de un 6,7% a un 9,3% (RP = 1,36; IC95%: 1,04; 1,77). En el mismo período hubo una reducción (p ≤ 0,05) en las proporciones de las siguientes variables: habitantes en la zona rural, familias sin acceso al agua corriente, domicilios con más de cuatro personas, madres con más de dos hijos, bajo peso al nacer y madres sin acceso al servicio prenatal. El ajuste para esas variables redujo significantemente la magnitud de las asociaciones y los IC95% englobaron la unidad, sugiriendo que los cambios en las prevalencias de desnutrición y obesidad fueron mediados por esas características. En el período evaluado hubo una drástica reducción en la prevalencia de déficit de estatura e incremento en la frecuencia de obesidad.Objetivou-se descrever a tendência temporal do déficit estatural e da obesidade em menores de 5 anos de Alagoas, Brasil. Dois inquéritos com amostras representativas foram realizados em 1992 (n = 1.228) e 2005 (n = 1.384), respectivamente. Déficit estatural foi definido pela altura/idade < -2 desvios-padrão e obesidade por peso/altura > 2 desvios-padrão. A prevalência de déficit estatural mudou de 22,5% para 11,4% (RP = 0,50; IC95%: 0,42; 0,60), enquanto a de obesidade passou de 6,7% para 9,3% (RP = 1,36; IC95%: 1,04; 1,77). No mesmo período houve redução (p ≤ 0,05) nas proporções das seguintes variáveis: moradores na zona rural, famílias sem acesso à água encanada, domicílios com mais de quatro pessoas, mães com mais de dois filhos, baixo peso ao nascer e mães sem acesso ao pré-natal. O ajuste para essas variáveis reduziu significantemente a magnitude das associações e os IC95% englobaram a unidade, sugerindo que as mudanças nas prevalências de desnutrição e obesidade foram mediadas por essas características. No período avaliado houve drástica redução na prevalência de déficit estatural e incremento na frequência de obesidade.

Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a treatable disease with high prevalence among hospitalized patients. It can cause significant increases in the duration of hospitalization and costs. PEM is especially important for health systems since malnourished patients present higher morbidity and mortality. The objective of the present study was to assess the evolution of nutritional status (NS) and the effect of malnutrition on clinical outcome of patients at a public university hospital of high complexity in Brazil. Patients hospitalized in internal medicine (n = 54), oncology (n = 43), and infectious diseases (n = 12) wards were included. NS was evaluated using subjective global assessment up to 48 h after admission, and thereafter at intervals of 4-6 days. On admission, patients (n = 109) were classified as well-nourished (n = 73), moderately malnourished or at risk of malnutrition (n = 28), and severely malnourished (n = 8). During hospitalization, malnutrition developed or worsened in 11 patients. Malnutrition was included in the clinical diagnosis of only 5/36 records (13.9% of the cases, P = 0.000). Nutritional therapy was administered to only 22/36 of the malnourished patients; however, unexpectedly, 6/73 well-nourished patients also received commercial enteral diets. Complications were diagnosed in 28/36 malnourished and 9/73 well-nourished patients (P = 0.000). Death occurred in 12/36 malnourished and 3/73 well-nourished patients (P = 0.001). A total of 24/36 malnourished patients were discharged regardless of NS. In summary, malnutrition remains a real problem, often unrecognized, unappreciated, and only sporadically treated, even though its effects can be detrimental to the clinical course and prognosis of patients. The amount of public and private funds unnecessarily dispersed because of hospital malnutrition is significant.

Background: the children's nutritional state is intrinsically related to their growth and development in the different stages of life and it should be assessed considering their harmonic growth in relation to nutrition.Objective: To identify the risk factors associated to malnutrition in children younger than five years old who belong to the health area of "Mártires de Manatí" polyclinic, Manatí municipality in Las Tunas, from January, 2013 to February, 2016.Methods: a retrospective, analytic and observational study, type case control, was carried out in the place and time period mentioned before, about risk factors associated to malnutrition in children. The sample was made up of 460 children, 230 undernourished children from the study group that were below the third percentile, according to the Cuban charts of weight for the size, and 230 children normal weight of the control group selected at random.Results: the bad hygienic-sanitary conditions increased 6,2 times the malnutrition risk in the infants. Children with inadequate ablactation increased the risk in 5,8 times and the artificial nursing incremented it in 1,8 times. The low per capita family income, low mother schooling, and the associated diseases were other risk factors of malnutrition. Causal association between low birth weight and malnutrition at fifth year of life was not demonstrated.Conclusions: the risk factors associated to malnutrition were identified. The bad hygienic-sanitary conditions, inadequate ablactation and the artificial breastfeeding showed the highest incidence.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Patients with chronic kidney failure undergoing dialysis have high prevalence of protein-energy malnutrition. There is still no uniform method for assessing these patients' nutritional status. It is recommended that a set of subjective and objective methods should be applied so that an adequate nutritional diagnosis can be reached. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional profile of patients undergoing hemodialysis. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study conducted in the Dialysis Treatment Unit, Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil, in 2008. METHODS: Anthropometric and biochemical indicators were characterized for 48 patients who also gave responses to the modified Subjective Global Assessment questionnaire (SGAm), and possible correlations between these indicators were investigated. RESULTS: The frequency of moderate or severe malnutrition ranged from 22% to 54%, according to the parameter used. Regarding the patients' conformity with the ideal weight, 29% of them weighed less than 75% of the ideal, and thus were classified as having moderate or severe malnutrition. The most significant correlations were observed between body mass index (BMI) and the idealness of triceps skinfold (TSF), upper arm circumference (UAC) and upper arm muscle circumference (UAMC); and between SGAm and the idealness of UAC and UAMC. CONCLUSION: The frequency of malnutrition showed great variability among the patients, according to the evaluation criterion chosen. Routine nutritional monitoring and validation of methods for assessing body composition among such patients are extremely important for diagnosing malnutrition early on, thus preventing complications and reducing the morbidity and mortality rates in this population.CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Portadores de insuficiência renal crônica em diálise apresentam alta prevalência de desnutrição proteico-energética. Não existe ainda um método uniforme para avaliar o estado nutricional desses pacientes. Recomenda-se a aplicação de um conjunto de métodos subjetivos e objetivos para se chegar aos diagnósticos nutricionais adequados. O objetivo deste estudo é traçar o perfil nutricional de pacientes submetidos a hemodiálise. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal descritivo realizado na Unidade de Tratamento Dialítico de Araraquara, São Paulo, Brasil, em 2008. MÉTODOS: 48 pacientes tiveram seus indicadores antropométricos e bioquímicos caracterizados, sendo também submetidos ao questionário Avaliação Global Subjetiva modificada (SGAm), verificando-se possíveis correlações entre esses indicadores. RESULTADOS: A frequência de desnutrição moderada e grave variou de 22% a 54%, de acordo com o parâmetro utilizado. Com relação à adequação do peso ideal, 29% da amostra estavam com porcentagem de adequação abaixo do percentil 75, classificados como portadores de desnutrição moderada e grave. As correlações mais significativas foram observadas entre índice de massa corporal (IMC) e adequações de prega triciptal (PCT), circunferência do braço (CB) e circunferência muscular do braço (CMB); e entre o SGAm e adequações de CB e CMB. CONCLUSÃO: A desnutrição apresentou grande variabilidade de frequência entre os pacientes de acordo com o critério escolhido para avaliação. O acompanhamento nutricional de rotina e a validação de métodos que avaliem a composição corporal desses pacientes são de extrema importância para diagnosticar precocemente a desnutrição e assim prevenir complicações e reduzir as taxas de morbimortalidade nesta população.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the persistence of nutritional deficit in a sample of schoolchildren. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 1,761 schoolchildren between 6 and 10 years from 3 schools. They were assessed by Z scores of weight for height and height for age, according to the World Health Organization. The variables studied were gender, age, grade and school year. The χ² test was used to relate the nutritional deficit with the variables. Results: Of all children 8.5% were malnourished according to the weight for height Z score, 21.6%, according to height for age. The analysis of the weight for height Z score revealed that 59.7% were male and 40.3% female. The mean age was 8.9 years. As to the Z score of height for age, 53.9% were males and 46.1% females. The risk of malnutrition was higher among boys: 59.7% for the weight for height index and 53.9% for height for age. There was no statistical difference between schools, gender and school year. As to nutritional status, school period (p < 0.0001) and students’ grade (p = 0.0105), we observed statistical significance. Conclusion: Malnutrition still persists among the low-income population and males had a higher percentage of malnutrition. Nutritional evaluation of students is an extremely important tool for understanding the dynamics of child nutrition and development.

Objective: To evaluate the persistence of nutritional deficit in a sample of schoolchildren. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 1,761 schoolchildren between 6 and 10 years from 3 schools. They were assessed by Z scores of weight for height and height for age, according to the World Health Organization. The variables studied were gender, age, grade and school year. The χ² test was used to relate the nutritional deficit with the variables. Results: Of all children 8.5% were malnourished according to the weight for height Z score, 21.6%, according to height for age. The analysis of the weight for height Z score revealed that 59.7% were male and 40.3% female. The mean age was 8.9 years. As to the Z score of height for age, 53.9% were males and 46.1% females. The risk of malnutrition was higher among boys: 59.7% for the weight for height index and 53.9% for height for age. There was no statistical difference between schools, gender and school year. As to nutritional status, school period (p < 0.0001) and students’ grade (p = 0.0105), we observed statistical significance. Conclusion: Malnutrition still persists among the low-income population and males had a higher percentage of malnutrition. Nutritional evaluation of students is an extremely important tool for understanding the dynamics of child nutrition and development.

Kwashiorkor é um tipo de desnutrição proteico-energética em que há deficiência dietética de proteína, embora a ingestão de calorias se mantenha adequada. As manifestações cutâneas incluem pele xerótica, com aspecto de esmalte descascado, típica coloração avermelhada a branco-acinzentada dos cabelos, o sinal da bandeira e edema mais evidente, nos membros inferiores e na face, dando aspecto de lua cheia. O presente artigo relata o caso de um paciente adulto, do sexo masculino, previamente submetido à duodenopancreatectomia para tratamento de pancreatite crônica associada ao pseudotumor em cabeça de pâncreas que evoluiu com alterações cutâneas de kwashiorkor após tuberculose pulmonar.Kwashiorkor is a type of protein-energy malnutrition where diet protein deficit is found, in spite of appropriate caloric intake. Cutaneous manifestations include xerosis, with abnormally dry skin that has a flaking enamel paint aspect, a typical red to gray-white hair color, the "flag sign" and more evident edema in lower limbs and face, giving it a full moon appearance. This article reports a case of a male adult patient who had undergone Whipple surgery for treatment of chronic pancreatitis associated with pseudotumor of the pancreatic head that progressed to cutaneous manifestations of kwashiorkor after pulmonary tuberculosis.

PURPOSE: To investigate the facial symmetry of rats submitted to experimental mandibular condyle fracture and with protein undernutrition (8% of protein) by means of cephalometric measurements. METHODS: Forty-five adult Wistar rats were distributed in three groups: fracture group, submitted to condylar fracture with no changes in diet; undernourished fracture group, submitted to hypoproteic diet and condylar fracture; undernourished group, kept until the end of experiment, without condylar fracture. Displaced fractures of the right condyle were induced under general anesthesia. The specimens were submitted to axial radiographic incidence, and cephalometric mensurations were made using a computer system. The values obtained were subjected to statistical analyses among the groups and between the sides in each group. RESULTS: There was significative decrease of the values of serum proteins and albumin in the undernourished fracture group. There was deviation of the median line of the mandible relative to the median line of the maxilla, significative to undernutrition fracture group, as well as asymmetry of the maxilla and mandible, in special in the final period of experiment. CONCLUSION: The mandibular condyle fracture in rats with proteic undernutrition induced an asymmetry of the mandible, also leading to consequences in the maxilla.OBJETIVO: Investigar a simetria facial de ratos submetidos à fratura experimental de côndilo mandibular e com desnutrição protéica (8% de proteína) por meio de mensurações cefalométricas. MÉTODOS: 45 ratos Wistar adultos foram distribuídos em três grupos: grupo fraturado, submetido a fratura condilar sem alteração na dieta; grupo fraturado desnutrido, submetido a dieta hipoprotéica e fratura condilar; grupo desnutrido, mantido até o final do experimento, sem fratura condilar. Fraturas com desvio foram feitas no côndilo direito com anestesia geral. Os espécimes foram submetidos à incidência radiográfica axial, e mensurações cefalométricas foram feitas por meio de um sistema de computador. Os valores obtidos foram submetidos a análises estatísticas entre os grupos e entre os lados em cada grupo. RESULTADOS: Houve redução significante nos valores de proteínas séricas e de albumina no grupo fraturado desnutrido. Houve desvio da linha média da mandíbula em relação à linha média da maxila, significativo no grupo fraturado desnutrido, assim como assimetria da maxila e da mandíbula, em especial no final do período experimental. CONCLUSÃO: A fratura do côndilo mandibular em ratos com desnutrição protéica induziu uma assimetria na mandíbula, também com consequências na maxila.

OBJETIVO: Descrever a variação temporal na prevalência de desnutrição infantil na região Nordeste do Brasil, em dois períodos sucessivos, identificando os principais fatores responsáveis pela evolução observada em cada período. MÉTODOS: Os dados analisados provêm de amostras probabilísticas da população de crianças menores de cinco anos estudadas por inquéritos domiciliares do programa Demographic Health Surveys realizados em 1986 (n=1.302), 1996 (n=1.108) e 2006 (n=950). A identificação dos fatores responsáveis pela variação na prevalência da desnutrição (altura para idade < -2 z) levou em conta mudanças na freqüência de cinco determinantes potenciais do estado nutricional, modelagens estatísticas da associação independente entre determinante e risco de desnutrição no início de cada período e cálculo de frações atribuíveis. RESULTADOS: A prevalência da desnutrição foi reduzida em um terço de 1986 a 1996 (de 33,9% para 22,2%) e em quase três quartos de 1996 a 2006 (de 22,2% para 5,9%). Melhorias na escolaridade materna e na disponibilidade de serviços de saneamento foram particularmente importantes para o declínio da desnutrição no primeiro período, enquanto no segundo período foram decisivos o aumento do poder aquisitivo das famílias mais pobres e, novamente, a melhoria da escolaridade materna. CONCLUSÕES: A aceleração do declínio da desnutrição do primeiro para o segundo período foi consistente com a aceleração de melhorias em escolaridade materna, saneamento, assistência à saúde e antecedentes reprodutivos e, sobretudo, com o excepcional aumento do poder aquisitivo familiar, observado apenas no segundo período. Mantida a taxa de declínio observada entre 1996 e 2006, o problema da desnutrição infantil na região Nordeste poderia ser considerado controlado em menos de dez anos. Para se chegar a este resultado será preciso manter o aumento do poder aquisitivo dos mais pobres e assegurar investimentos públicos para completar a universalização do acesso a serviços essenciais de educação, saúde e saneamento.OBJETIVO: Describir la variación temporal en la prevalencia de desnutrición infantil en la región Noreste de Brasil, en dos períodos sucesivos, identificando los principales factores responsables por la evolución observada en cada período. MÉTODOS: Los datos analizados provienen de muestras probabilísticas de la población de niños menores de cinco años estudiados por pesquisas domiciliares del programa Demographic Health Surveys realizados en 1986 (n=1.302), 1996 (n=1.108) y 2006 (n=950). La identificación de los factores responsables por la variación en la prevalencia de la desnutrición (altura para edad OBJECTIVE: To describe changes in prevalence of child undernutrition in Northeastern Brazil in two successive time periods, identifying, in each period, the major factors responsible for these changes. METHODS: Data analyzed are from probabilistic samples of underfives from three Demographic Health Surveys carried out in 1986 (n=1,302), 1996 (n=1,108), and 2006 (n=950). Identification of factors responsible for temporal changes in child undernutrition (height-for-age below < -2 z) took into account time changes in five potential determinants of child nutritional status, statistical modeling of the independent association between determinants and risk of undernutrition, and calculation of attributable fractions. RESULTS: Prevalence of child undernutrition fell by one-third between 1986 and 1996 (from 33.9% to 22.2%) and by almost three-quarters between 1996 and 2006 (from 22.2% to 5.9%). Improvements in maternal schooling and in the coverage of water and sewage services were particularly important for the decline in child undernutrition in the first period, while increasing purchasing power of the poorest families and, again, maternal schooling were more relevant in the second period. CONCLUSIONS: The acceleration of the decline in child undernutrition between the two periods was consistent with accelerated improvement of maternal schooling, water supply and sewage, health care, and maternal reproductive antecedents, as well as with the outstanding increase in purchasing power among the poor during the second period. If the rate of decline in growth deficits is kept at around the rate of the most recent period, child undernutrition will be controlled in the Brazilian Northeast in less than ten years. Achieving this will depend on sustaining the increase in purchasing power among the poor and on ensuring public investment in completing the universalization of access to essential services such as education, health, and sanitation.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os fatores de risco para desnutrição, estado nutricional e medidas de apoio nutricional em crianças hospitalizadas. MÉTODOS: Por meio de estudo longitudinal, prospectivo, avaliou-se por 3 meses consecutivos todas as crianças hospitalizadas (< 5 anos) em enfermarias de pediatria geral de 10 hospitais universitários brasileiros. Para coleta de dados, utilizou-se questionário padrão e avaliação da condição nutricional, obtida na internação e alta: escore z peso/estatura, peso/idade e estatura/idade. RESULTADOS: Somente 56,7% das crianças tinham classificação do estado nutricional registrada no prontuário. Observou-se, na admissão, 16,3 e 30% de crianças com desnutrição moderada/grave e baixa estatura, respectivamente. O risco de desnutrição associou-se com o baixo peso ao nascer e com a baixa idade das crianças. Houve alto percentual de agravos nutricionais nas crianças avaliadas, não sendo verificada a anotação da condição nutricional no prontuário e nem adoção de medidas de terapia nutricional apropriadas para crianças desnutridas. CONCLUSÕES: Salienta-se a importância da capacitação das unidades hospitalares quanto ao diagnóstico e abordagem terapêutica da desnutrição baseado nos guias de conduta já disponíveis em nosso país.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate risk factors for malnutrition, nutritional status and nutritional support provided in hospitalized children. METHODS: This longitudinal study prospectively followed, for 3 consecutive months, all children under 5 years of age (n = 907) hospitalized in general pediatric medical wards of 10 Brazilian university-based hospitals. For data collection, a standard questionnaire was used and nutritional condition was evaluated at hospital admission and discharge: weight-for-height, weight-for-age and height-for-age z score. RESULTS: Only 56.7% of the children had their nutritional classification documented in the medical record. At hospital admission, 16.3 and 30.0% of the children had moderate/severe malnutrition and low stature, respectively. Risk of malnutrition was associated with low birth weight and younger age. A high percentage of nutritional deficiencies was observed in the children analyzed, although child's nutritional condition and the adoption of appropriate nutritional therapy were not documented in the medical records of the malnourished children. CONCLUSION: These data underscore the importance of developing qualified hospital medical wards regarding diagnosis and therapeutic approach to malnutrition, based on the conduct guidelines already available in Brazil.

Objetivou-se identificar o fator cultural que interfere no cuidado do filho desnutrido e propor ações de Educação Popular em Saúde na assistência à criança desnutrida. Trata-se de uma pesquisa-ação desenvolvida no Núcleo de Atenção Médica Integrada – NAMI, realizada no período de janeiro a julho de 2008. Participaram deste estudo oito mães e um pai, cujas idades variavam de 20 a 48 anos. A coleta de dados realizou-se mediante entrevistas semi-estruturadas e oficinas educativas, em que se utilizou análise de conteúdo de Bardin. Após organização dos resultados, foram identificadas as categorias: uma desnutrição desconhecida; oficinas educativas e saber popular; consciência do cuidado. O resultado aponta para uma nova consciência no cuidado com o filho desnutrido na cultura da comunidade. Recomendam-se intervenções de Educação Popular em Saúde adequadas para grupos culturalmente distintos. Nesta perspectiva, há de seconsiderar o conjunto de propostas, viabilizando e incentivando a Educação Popular, para buscar mudanças na constituição de novos sujeitos e práticas comprometidas com o rompimento das barreiras sociais, econômicas e políticas.This study aimed to identify the cultural factor that interferes with the care of undernourished children and to propose actions of Popular Health Education in the assistance of undernourished children. It regards an action research developed at the Nucleus of Integrated Medical Attention – NAMI, performed between January and July 2008. Eight mothers and one father took part in the study, with ages varying from 20 to 48 years old. The data collection took place by means of semi-structured interviews and educational workshops, which were used in the Bardin content analysis. After organizing the result, the following categories were identified: unknown malnutrition; educative workshops and popular knowledge; conscience of care. The results point to a new conscience at the care ofundernourished children in the community culture. interventions of Popular Health Education adjusted to culturally distinct groups are recommended. In this perspective, the proposals must be considered, making possible and stimulating Popular Education, searching for changes in the constitution of new subjects and citizens and committed to the overcoming of social, economic and political barriers.

OBJETIVO: Identificar os determinantes da desnutrição energético-protéica que ocasionam déficits ponderal e de crescimento linear em crianças. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal envolvendo 1.041 crianças (menores de dois anos de idade) de 10 municípios do Estado da Bahia, de 1999 a 2000. Utilizou-se a técnica de regressão logística e estratégia da abordagem hierárquica para identificar os fatores associados ao estado antropométrico. RESULTADOS: O modelo final para déficit no crescimento linear revelou como determinante básico: a posse de dois ou menos equipamentos domésticos (OR=2,9; IC 95%: 1,74-4,90) e no nível subjacente, a ausência de consulta pré-natal (OR=2,7; IC 95%: 1,47-4,97); entre os determinantes imediatos o baixo peso ao nascer (OBJECTIVE: To identify determinants of protein-energy malnutrition resulting in weight and linear growth deficits in children. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 1,041 children (under two years of age) from 10 municipalities in Bahia, Northeastern Brazil, during 1999-2000. Both logistic regression and a hierarchical approach were used to identify factors associated with the anthropometric measures. RESULTS: The basic determinant found in the final model for linear growth retardation was having up to two household appliances (OR=2.9; 95% CI: 1.74-4.90); as an underlying determinant, not attending prenatal visits (OR=2.7; 95% CI: 1.47-4.97); and, among immediate determinants were low birth weight (OR=3.6; 95% CI: 1.72-7.70) and reported hospitalization within 12 months before the interview (OR=2.4; 95% CI: 1.42-4.10). Determinants of weight deficit at the basic, underlying and immediate levels were: per capita monthly income of less than one-fourth of the minimum wage (OR=3.4; 95% CI: 1.41-8.16), not attending prenatal visits (OR=2.1; 95% CI: 1.03-4.35) and low birth weight (OR=4.8; 95% CI: 2.00-11.48) respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Children's weight and linear deficits were accounted for the overlapping of poor material living conditions, limited access to health care and disease burden. Interventions aimed at improving living conditions and better access to health care programs are strategies towards equity in children's health and nutrition.

O objetivo desse estudo foi descrever as principais causas de internação e doenças associadas em crianças gravemente desnutridas (DEP), avaliar a mortalidade, evolução antropométrica e terapia nutricional, utilizando protocolo da Organização Mundial de Saúde - OMS). Em estudo retrospectivo, descritivo e transversal, avaliou-se 191 prontuários de crianças portadoras de DEP grave. Utilizou-se os indicadores antropométricos na forma de escore-z (peso/idade-ZP, estatura/idade-ZE e peso/estatura-ZPE) para classificação e avaliação da evolução nutricional durante a internação. As crianças foram divididas em 3 grupos (G): GI (desnutrição primária-30,9%), GII (desnutrição secundária-51,7%) e GIII (crianças que foram admitidas como GI e que durante a internação identificou-se alguma doença associada a DEP - 12%). A terapia nutricional baseou-se nas normas da OMS, 1999, com algumas modificações. Utilizou-se sempre fórmulas industrializadas: isenta de lactose (crianças com diarréia e na fase de estabilização), baixo teor de lactose (crianças sem diarréia e na fase de recuperação) e hidrolisado de proteínas do soro de leite de vaca (crianças com diarréia crônica e/ou sepse). Análise estatística: teste t-student, qui-quadrado e regressão linear simples. A mediana de idade foi de 10,3 meses e o índice de letalidade de 4,2%. As crianças do GI e GII eram mais velhas (11vs12vs7 meses,p=0,02) e permaneceram menos tempo internadas do que as do G III (20vs22vs37 dias,p=0,010). O risco de morte no GIII foi duas vezes maior (GIII>GII+GI; 8,7% vs 3,6%, p=0,25). Pneumonia, diarréia e baixo ganho ponderal foram os diagnósticos mais freqüentes a admissão. Sonda foi utilizada com maior freqüência no GII e GIII em relação ao GI (p=0,004). Nutrição parenteral foi indicada em apenas 5,7% das crianças (GII+GIII>GI,p=0,037). Intolerância a dieta inicialmente instituída foi observada em apenas 20% das crianças. Observou-se 87%, 74,1% e 22% de melhora em relação ao ZPE, ZP e ZE, respectivamente. O ZP no GI e o ZPE no GIII foram os indicadores que mostraram melhora mais efetiva durante a internação. O protocolo modificado da WHO foi efetivo no tratamento interprofissional de crianças portadoras de DEP grave, resultando em boa reabilitação nutricional com baixos índices de mortalidade. Observou-se alto percentual de crianças admitidas como DEP primário que tinham alguma doença associada. O atraso no diagnóstico pode ser responsável pelo maior tempo de internação e dos índices de mortalidade.To describe the main causes for internation and associated diseases in severe malnourished children. To evaluate mortality rate, anthropometric development and nutritional therapy with the use of World Health Organization guidelines (WHO) were assessed. In a cross-sectional retrospective study 191 hospitalized malnourished children were assessed. To classify and evaluate nutritional rehabilitation Z-score was used: weight-for-age (ZW), height-for-age(ZH) and weight-for-height(ZWH). The children were divided in three groups (G): GI (primary malnutrition-30,9%), GII (secondary malnutrition-51,7%) and GIII (children who were admitted as GI but during internation had an identified chronic disease-12%). Nutritional therapy used was based on WHO guidelines, with slight modifications. The formulas chosen were all industrialized: lactose-free polymeric formula (PLF) for children with diarrhea, low lactose polymeric formula (PLL) for children without diarrhea and cow’s milk hydrolysate (H) for sepsis or chronic diarrhea. In the rehabilitation phase, all the children used PLL formula. Statistical analysis: Student’s, chi-square tests, simple linear regression. The median age and mortality rate were 10,3 months and 4,2%, respectively. The GI and GII children were older than GIII (11vs12vs7months,p=0,02) and had shorter length of stay (20vs22vs37days,p=0,010). Mortality risks in GIII were twice as frequent as in GI+GII. Pneumonia, diarrhea and poor weight gain were the main diagnosis at admission. Tubes were used more frequently in GII+GIII than GI (p=0,004). Parenteral nutrition was indicated in 5,7% of children, more often in GIII than GI+GII (p=0,037). Tolerance of the initial formula wasn’t satisfactory in 20% of the children. An improvement of 87% ZWH, 74,1% ZW and 22% was observed. ZW in GI and ZWH in GIII were the indices that showed the most effective gain during hospital stay. The modified WHO guidelines were effective in the multiprofessional treatment of malnourished children, resulting in good nutritional rehabilitation with low mortality rates. A high percentage of children admitted as primary malnutrition who had a chronic disease diagnosed was observed. The late diagnosis may be responsible for the high length of stay, formula intolerance and mortality risk.

RACIONAL: Estudos demonstram mudança na forma de apresentação clínica da doença celíaca, com aumento da ocorrência de formas atípicas tanto em crianças, como em adultos. OBJETIVO: Verificar este fato em crianças atendidas em serviço universitário especializado (Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, SP.). MÉTODOS: Foram estudados pacientes celíacos em dois períodos: de janeiro de 1978 a dezembro de 1987 (grupo 1 = G1) e janeiro de 1988 a dezembro de 1997 (grupo 2 = G2). Foram analisados: tempo de doença, idade ao diagnóstico, estado nutricional e formas clínicas. Considerou-se forma típica se o paciente tinha pelo menos dois dos seguintes sinais/sintomas: diarréia, distensão abdominal, perda de peso, associados ou não a outros. A análise estatística foi realizada pelos testes exato de Fisher e de Wilcoxon. RESULTADOS: Mediana de idade ao diagnóstico: 23 meses (G1) e 21 (G2). Intervalo entre início de sintomas e diagnóstico: 13 meses (G1) e 11 (G2). Estado nutricional (%) Gomez: G1:eutrofia = 23,8; DI = 47,61; DII = 23,8 e DIII = 4,76. G2: eutrofia = 20,68, DI = 48,27, DII = 27,58 e DIII = 3,44. Waterloo: G1: eutrofia = 23,8, emaciação = 14,28 baixa estatura = 28,57 e crônico = 33,33. G2: eutrofia = 20,68, emaciação = 13,79, baixa estatura = 34,48 e crônico = 31,03. Formas clínicas (%) - G1: típica 57,14 e atípica 42,85. G2: típica 55,18 e atípica 44,82. Nenhum dado foi estatisticamente diferente nos dois grupos. CONCLUSÕES: No estudo não se encontrou mudança nas formas de apresentação e demais características clínicas da doença celíaca. Cogita-se que essa hipótese poderia ser decorrente de características populacionais, de diferenças na abordagem nos serviços de saúde ou de diferentes períodos de observação, em comparação com os demais estudos.BACKGROUND: Several studies have demonstrated changes in the forms of clinical presentation of celiac disease in children and adults, with an increased occurrence of atypical forms. AIM: To determine this fact in Clinical Hospital, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil. METHODS: Celiac patients were studied over two different periods of time, from January 1978 to December 1987 (group 1 = G1) and from January 1988 to December 1997 (group 2 = G2). Time of disease, age at diagnosis and nutritional status and clinical forms were investigated. The typical form was considered to be present if the patient had at least two of the following signs/symptoms: diarrhea, abdominal distention, and weight loss, associated or not with others. RESULTS: Clinical forms (%) - G1: typical 57.14 and atypical 42.85. G2: typical 55.18 and atypical 44.82. Median age at diagnosis: 23 months (G1) and 21 months (G2). Interval between the onset of symptoms and the diagnosis: 13 months (G1) and 11 months (G2). Gomez nutritional status G1: Eutrophy = 23.8, DI = 47.61, DII = 23.8 and DIII = 4.76. G2: Eutrophy = 20.68, DI = 48.27, DII = 27.58 and DIII = 3.44. Waterloo G1: Eutrophy = 23.8, Wasting = 14.28, Stunting = 28.57 and Chronic = 33.33. G2: Eutrophy = 20.68, Wasting = 13.79, Stunting = 34.48 and Chronic = 31.03. No statistically significant differences occurred between the groups for any of these parameters. CONCLUSIONS: No change in the forms of presentation or remaining clinical characteristics of celiac disease occurred in our service. This may be due to the population characteristics or to differences among health services, or to different periods of observation.

OBJETIVO: A sensibilidade de indicadores antropométricos e laboratoriais, na detecção da desnutrição protéico-energética de cirróticos foi estudada em 117 adultos, com gravidades (Child-Pugh), Child A (18), B (42) e C (57). RESULTADOS: Os indicadores antropométricos mais alterados foram: a circunferência braquial 61%, a prega cutânea tricipital 55% e a prega cutânea subescapular 53%, e os laboratoriais: albumina 93% e hemoglobina 90%. Com a combinação de indicadores circunferência braquial + prega cutânea subescapular + albumina ou hemoglobina, alcançaram-se 29% de déficit, valor idêntico ao da associação apenas de circunferência braquial + prega cutânea subescapular. Essa combinação (circunferência braquial e prega cutânea subescapular) detectou 63% de desnutrição protéico-energética, com predominância das formas moderada e grave em todos os graus Child. CONCLUSÃO: A desnutrição protéico-energética na cirrose hepática é predominantemente protéica, podendo ser caracterizada por indicadores laboratoriais (mais sensíveis) ou, com maior especificidade, pela circunferência braquial, embora inespecífica à discriminação da gravidade da desnutrição protéico-energética entre os grupos Child B e C.AIM: The prevalence and severity of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) were investigated through the anthropometric (body mass index, triceps and subescapular skinfolds and upper arm circumferences) and blood measures in 117 cirrhotic patients. The sensitivity and specificity of single or combined PEM markers were tested among Child A (n=18), Child B (n=42) and Child C (n=57) adults (51±13y). RESULTS: Were calculated as z score and considered deficient when z

OBJETIVO: Determinar la cobertura de la Atención Integrada a las Enfermedades Prevalentes de la Infancia y estimar la prevalencia de desmedro en niños de 6 a 36 meses de edad en dos localidades urbanas de Nayarit, México, para analizar su asociación. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal, descriptivo y analítico, realizado en agosto de 2002 en dos áreas urbanas de Nayarit, México. Se aplicó en el domicilio un cuestionario estructurado para recabar datos socioeconómicos y sobre antropometría, atención a la salud del niño y la madre, y morbilidad. Se compararon grupos con pruebas de Ji² o exacta de Fisher. Las asociaciones fueron analizadas utilizando modelos de regresión logística. RESULTADOS: La cobertura de la Atención Integrada a las Enfermedades Prevalentes de la Infancia fue de 97% en vacunación, 66.9% en suplementación con vitamina A, 91.5% en desparasitación intestinal con albendazol, 50% en vigilancia nutricia, 25.5% en capacitación materna, 24.4% en atención a la salud de la madre y 2.5% global. Se encontró una prevalencia de desmedro de 4.9%, la cual estuvo asociada significativamente a esquemas incompletos, tanto de vitamina A como de albendazol. CONCLUSIONES: Los componentes de la Atención Integrada a las Enfermedades Prevalentes de la Infancia muestran coberturas acordes con su factibilidad y tiempo de implantación. Los hallazgos de la asociación de la atención integrada de la salud infantil con el desmedro destacan la importancia de reunir mayor evidencia sobre su efecto en el estado nutricio, con el fin de contribuir en el mejoramiento y prevención de la desnutrición infantil.OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between coverage of the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) strategy and the prevalence of stunting in children 6 to 36 months of age. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in two urban areas of Nayarit, Mexico, in August 2002. Anthropometry, health care for mothers and their children, morbidity and socioeconomic data were collected by means of household interviews. Statistical analyses were performed with chi-squared tests, Fisher's exact test, and logistic regression. RESULTS: IMCI coverage rates were as follows: immunization 97%, vitamin A supplementation 66.9%, deworming with albendazole 91.5%, nutritional surveillance 50%, maternal health education 25.5%, maternal health care 24.4%, and 2.5% overall. The prevalence of stunting was 4.9%, and was statistically associated with incomplete courses of vitamin A supplementation and albendazole deworming. CONCLUSIONS: Coverage of IMCI components varied according to their feasibility and time of implementation. The associations between IMCI and failure to thrive highlight the importance of obtaining more information about its effects on the nutritional status of children. This will help to improve prevention strategies against child malnutrition.

OBJETIVO: Verificar a influência do baixo peso ao nascer (BPN) na anemia e desnutrição da criança, ao longo do primeiro ano de vida. MÉTODOS: A população amostral foi constituída por todas as crianças menores de um ano de idade atendidas nas unidades de saúde do Município de Maringá, PR, em 1998, num total de 587. Considerou-se baixo peso ao nascer, todas as crianças com peso OBJECTIVE: To verify the influence of Low Birthweight (LBW) on child anemia and malnutrition during the first year of life. METHODS: Sample population included all children under one year seen at Health Units of the municipality of Maringá, southern Brazil, in 1998. Total sample size was 587 children. LBW was defined as birthweight below 2 500 g. The analysis of growth for the weigh-for-age and height-for-age indicators was based on NationalCenter for HealthSstatiscs standards. For anemia diagnosis, a biochemical hemoglobin concentration dosage, using HemoCue direct colorimetric method was employed. Children with [Hb]

Infection, occurring with malnutrition, is a major cause of morbidity in all age groups and is responsible for two-thirds of all death under 5 yr of age in developing countries. Many cells of the immune system are known to depend for their function on metabolic pathways that employ various nutrients as critical factors. The most consistent changes in immune competence in PEM are in cell-mediated immunity, the bactericidal function of neutrophils, the complement system, the secretory immunoglobin A, and antibody response.