Nörolojik Disfajisi Olan Çocuklarda Malnütrisyon ve Beslenme Durumunun Saptanması

Abstract

In order to evaluate the nutritional statement of 96 children with neurological dysphagia, aged 1-10 years (3.8±2.4), followed-up with the diagnosis of neurological disorders and dysphagia by Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine Department of Pediatrics Neurology were included. In the study, a questionnaire was applied to the parents to collect data on general information, nutritional habits and a 24 hour dietary recall. In addition, anthropometric measurements were evaluated. In the study, out of total, percentage of boys and girls were 56.2% and 43.8%, respectively, and 49.0% were diagnosed with cerebral palsy. According to the WHO 2006 and WHO 2007 Growth Standards, Weight-for-age Z score (WAZ) values of 50.0% (n=48) of patients were underweight (WAZ< -2SD). According to the feeding type, children were classified into 3 groups; 43.7% only orally fed, 14.6% both oral and tube feeding, 41.7% only tube feeding. For the 33.3% of children only orally fed, mean meal duration was over 30 minutes. Nutritional support formulas were used by 69.8% of children in the study. In conclusion, 53.1% of children consumed a diet that was deficient in energy while none of the patients consumed excessive energy. Totally, 51.8% of boys and 40.5% of girls had adequate dietary energy and 51.8% of boys and 42.8% of girls had adequate dietary protein intake. Dietary fiber intake of 93.8% of children was insufficient. Due to having difficulties providing adequate nutrients and also increasing in nutritional requirements in the period of growth and development, dysphagic children are under the risk of malnutrition. Early diagnosis and treatment of dysphagia with multidisciplinary approach will contribute to improve nutritional status, physical and cognitive development of the child and interaction between family and/or environment.