Nutritional Status and Associated Factors in Non-dialysis Inpatients With Chronic Kidney Disease: a Single-center, Mixed-methods Study.

Abstract

Background: Malnutrition is a prevalent and critical complication in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, adversely affecting clinical outcomes.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence, associated factors, and implications of malnutrition in CKD patients, focusing on the role of nutritional interventions and family support.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among CKD patients, utilizing the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) method to evaluate nutritional status. Additional parameters included body mass index (BMI), serum albumin levels, and self-reported information on nutritional counseling and family support. Logistic regression analysis identified risk factors for malnutrition.

Results: Malnutrition was identified in 76.1% of patients, with a higher prevalence among those aged ≥60 years and those with a disease duration ≥2 years. Elderly patients exhibited a 3.29-fold higher risk of malnutrition, while prolonged disease duration was associated with a 3.68-fold increased risk (both p < 0.05). BMI indicated chronic energy deficiency in 34.0% of patients, highlighting the utility of multi-parameter nutritional assessments. Only 23.2% of patients received nutrition-related information from healthcare professionals, and 81.2% relied on family support, which played a complex yet significant role in dietary adherence.

Conclusion: Malnutrition remains a pervasive issue among CKD patients, driven by aging, prolonged disease duration, and limited access to structured nutritional counseling. Comprehensive strategies incorporating early assessment, individualized nutritional interventions, and family engagement are essential to mitigate malnutrition and improve outcomes. Future research should focus on longitudinal, multi-center studies to refine and scale effective nutritional care models for CKD populations.