Assessment of nutritional status and associated factors among hemodialysis patients in Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Background: This study aims to evaluate the nutritional condition of individuals undergoing hemodialysis (HD) in Isfahan, Iran. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 201 HD patients. The modified quantitative subjective global assessment was employed to evaluate nutritional status, along with the collection of sociodemographic data, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical tests. Results: The participants had a mean age of 60.2 ± 16.24 years, with 70 (34.83%) being female. The prevalence of malnutrition was 63.18%, with 60.2% classified as mild-moderately malnutrition and 2.98% identified as severely malnutrition. The participants had a mean body mass index (BMI) of 24.6 ± 5.0 (kg/m 2), while 7.96% of patients had a BMI below the normal range. Compared to patients who underwent HD for <5 years, patients who had been on dialysis for >5 years demonstrated 2.5 times higher odds of malnutrition (odds ratio: 2.47, 95% confidence interval: 1.25-4.9). Age, mid-arm circumference, education level, and comorbid diabetes mellitus were significantly associated with malnutrition. In addition, malnourished patients showed lower levels of serum albumin (Alb) (P < 0.001) and serum creatinine (Cr) (P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated age, dialysis duration, upper diploma educational level, lower serum Alb, and lower serum Cr may independently be associated with malnutrition in HD patients. Conclusion: Malnutrition is prevalent among HD patients. Regular assessment of nutritional status may enhance nutritional outcomes and overall well-being in this patient population.