Investigation of Nutritional Characteristics and Growth Parameters of Children with Cystic Fibrosis Disease

Objectives: This descriptive study was conducted to examine the nutritional characteristics and growth parameters of children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Methods: Sixty patients with the diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis admitted to Çukurova University Medical Faculty Balcalı Hospital Pediatric Infection Outpatient Clinic between 15 March and 15 August were included. Information about the introductory and nutritional characteristics of the patients and their growth parameters were calculated and recorded. Results: Twenty-eight (46.7) of the patients in the study were female and 32 (53.3) were male. In the distribution of symptoms; Growth retardation was observed in 17 (28.3%) of them, bronchiectasis and skin with a salty taste were observed in 8 (13.3%). Eight of the patients (13.3%) received Ca, 7 (11.7) Iron, 14 (23.3%) multivitamin and mineral supplements. 51.7% of the cases were breastfed for periods ranging from 6 to 12 months. 23.3% switched to supplementary food at 6 months. Considering the weight percentile according to the age of children with CF ,20%, 10-25% percentile, 30%, 25-50% percentile, 11.7% 3-10 percentile, 8.3% below 3% percentile. Conclusion: In studies conducted in children with CF, reasons such as malabsorption, loss of appetite, food refusal and decreased taste cause refusal to feed. This results in growth retardation and weight loss. Our study results support these symptoms. Nutritional supplementation and growth control gain importance as nutritional problems make this situation difficult. Regular increase in weight and height percentile indicates adequate nutrition. CF patients’ weight, growth, and nutrition require local PCP and nurse monitoring, including emergency intervention plans.