The Prognostic Importance of Protein Energy Wasting in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Sectional Monocentric Study

Aim: The purpose of this study is to determine the frequency of Protein Energy Wasting (PEW) in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and evaluate the relationship between PEW and anthropometric measurements, biochemical parameters, and nutritional status of individuals. Method: The study was conducted with 119 predialysis individuals aged 19 and over with CKD. The biochemical parameters and anthropometric measurements of the participants were evaluated, and their nutritional status was determined by Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) and PEW criteria. Nutritional status was classified as good, moderate nutritional deficiency, and severe malnutrition according to SGA. The presence of PEW was accepted if ≥3 categories for PEW were met. Results: According to SGA, 20.2% of the individuals had moderate/severe malnutrition and 8.4% PEW. It was determined that with the increase in the number of PEW criteria in individuals, the body weight, body mass index (BMI), upper middle arm circumference, triceps skin fold thickness and body fat percentage; serum total protein, albumin, calcium and magnesium levels; intake amounts of many macro and micro nutrients have decreased significantly. It was detected that BMI (26.8%), albumin (18.6%), fiber (14.1%) and magnesium (15.7%) were the parameters most explaining the number of PEW criteria met by individuals. Conclusion: PEW was related to anthropometric measurements, biochemical parameters and nutrient intakes. So, using the PEW tool at certain intervals from the moment of diagnosis will be a practical and effective intervention in reducing the prevalence of malnutrition.