Introduction: Malnutrition is a common problem associated with increased risk of
morbidity and mortality among haemodialysis (HD) patients.
Methods: This study
determined the correlation between anthropometric measurements, biochemical
indicators, dietary intake and dialysis malnutrition score among HD patients in
Sibu, Sarawak. A total of 55 patients were recruited by purposive sampling and
their biochemical parameters were retrieved from dialysis records. Anthropometric
measurements and dietary intake were determined using standardised protocols
while Dialysis Malnutrition Score (DMS) was computed to determine patients’
nutritional status.
Results: Mean age of the patients was 53.0±12.2 years. Mean
DMS was low, indicating low tendency of malnutrition among the patients.
Approximately one-third of the patients had high interdialytic weight gain (IDWG),
indicating a poor adherence on fluid recommendation. Mean intakes of dietary
energy (DEI) and protein (DPI) were low, with only approximately 15% achieving
the recommendations according to Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/
DOQI). Increase in age (r=0.337, p=0.012) and dialysis vintage (r=0.403, p=0.002)
were associated with poorer nutritional status while higher BMI, MUAC, and
serum albumin were associated with better nutritional status.
Conclusion: This
study revealed a high proportion of the HD patients with poor adherence on fluid
intake, and the prevalence of inadequate DEI and DPI, indicating the importance
of regular dietary counselling for HD patients. In view of their non-invasive nature
and close relationship with nutritional status, body mass index, mid-upper arm
circumference, and serum albumin should be included as part of the comprehensive
periodic nutrition assessment of HD patients.