F083 Dietary fasting behaviors in Huntington’s disease patient population

<h3>Background</h3> Huntington’s disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects adults in the prime of life. Effective disease-modifying treatments remain elusive; however, recent studies suggest dietary fasting may benefit neurodegenerative diseases, including HD [1]. Although fasting has shown potential in animal studies and non-HD populations, it has yet to be explored in persons with HD. <h3>Aims</h3> Use a survey to gain insight into the prevalence of fasting habits in the HD community. The information will lay the foundation for future observational and interventional studies. <h3>Methods</h3> We developed a survey to collect information on individual HD diagnosis, Enroll-HD status, caloric consumption timing, dietary habits, and fasting practices. The survey was distributed by the HDSA. Responses were tracked and analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. <h3>Results</h3> Of the 116 respondents, 113 are at risk for HD or known to carry the HD gene, and 66 are active participants in Enroll-HD. Over 42% of respondents are currently or have previously practiced a dietary fasting protocol. Roughly 30% of these individuals have practiced intermittent fasting for over a year figure 1. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Various forms of dietary fasting are commonly practiced by persons in the HD community, including those participating in Enroll-HD. These results support the use of a secondary survey that will be released by our group in the coming months. The goal of this next study is to retrospectively assess the effects of dietary fasting habits by partnering with Enroll-HD to analyze clinical outcomes, markers of disease progression, and safety measures, such as weight change over time. <h3>References</h3> Wells RG, Neilson LE, McHill AW, Hiller AL. Dietary fasting and time-restricted eating in Huntington’s disease: therapeutic potential and underlying mechanisms. <i>Transl Neurodegener</i>. 2024;<b>13</b>(1):17 doi: 10.1186/s40035-024-00406-z.