Work

Evaluation of food intake, malnutrition, growth and development in children with esophageal atresia: a pilot study from Turkey

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the relationships among nutritional intake, malnutrition, and growth and development in children under 2 years of age with esophageal atresia. METHODS: A survey was administered to the parents of healthy children and children with esophageal atresia who were followed up at Ankara City Hospital Pediatric Surgery Polyclinic. Nutrition education was provided, a follow-up visit was scheduled three months later, and the assessments were repeated. RESULTS: The study included 20 children with esophageal atresia and 40 controls under 2 years of age. Height-for-age, weight-for-age and head circumference measurements were significantly lower in children with esophageal atresia than in the control group (p < 0.05). At the second interview, triceps skinfold thickness for age and mid-upper arm circumference for age were also significantly lower in children with esophageal atresia compared to control group (p < 0.05). Statistically significant differences were observed in dietary and food consistency preferences, eating status, and swallowing function (p < 0.05). In addition, according to the Pediatric Eating Assessment Tool-10 and Screening Tool for Risk of Impaired Nutritional Status and Growth, a high prevalence of swallowing disorders and a moderate risk of malnutrition were identified in children with esophageal atresia (p < 0.05). At the end of follow-up, significant increases in weight-for-age and height-for-age z scores were observed over time in children with esophageal atresia (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the percentages meeting daily requirements for protein, carbohydrates and dietary fiber increased over time (p < 0.05). Swallowing symptoms improved over time in children with esophageal atresia, and their current dietary patterns remained significantly different from those of the control group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Appropriate nutritional support delivered with a multidisciplinary approach and long-term follow-up can help children to achieve a growth rate appropriate for their peers.

Source: BMC Pediatrics

DOI: 10.1186/s12887-025-06168-5

Authors: Dilara Berşan Konyalıgil, Nevra Koç, Doğuş Çalışkan, Aysun Kara Uzun, Emrah Şenel

Institutions: Atilim University, Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi

Language: English

Topic: Child Nutrition and Feeding Issues

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,090