Affiliations 

  • 1 Universiti Putra Malaysia
MyJurnal

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients usually have dietary problems leading to malnutrition issues. Therefore, this study aimed to determine macro and micronutrient intakes and meal-related sit- uations among outpatients COPD elderly and its adequacy according to their requirements. Methods: 140 patients were included in this cross-sectional study at Respiratory Clinics of Hospital Serdang and Institut Perubatan Respira- tori. Socio-demographic and health status data were collected by interviewing patients and reviewing their medical records. A three-day diet history (two-day on weekdays, one day on weekend) was analysed using Nutritionist Pro and compared against their requirements. Meal-related situation was assessed using three open-ended questions that related to food shopping, cooking and eating and analysed using content analysis. Results: Patients were 70±7 years old, 97% male, 59% Malay, 48% had primary education, 75% married, 72% ex-smokers and 54% presented with comorbidities. Majority of them had no episode of exacerbation for the past one year and in moderate stage of the COPD severity. Mean energy intake was 916±221 kcal/day with 98% of them have under-reported their intake. Almost all patients had inadequate macro and micronutrient intake; energy (97%), protein (97%), carbohydrate (86%), fat (99%), vitamin A (95%), C (86%), D (99%) and E (99%). The meal-related situation reported patients had difficulties with food shopping and preparation and problems during mealtime. Conclusion: COPD elderly reported inadequate intake of macro and micronutrients and had problems during mealtime. This indicates the need for Ma- laysian nutrition guidelines specific to COPD patients and nutrition intervention in the primary setting.