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Oral protein–energy supplements for children with chronic disease:systematic review

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  07 March 2007

Vanessa J. Poustie*
Affiliation:
Department of Child Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3GB, UK
Ruth M. Watling
Affiliation:
Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Royal Liverpool Children's Hospital, Liverpool, LI 2 2AP, UK
Rosalind L. Smyth
Affiliation:
Department of Child Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3GB, UK
*
Corresponding author: Dr Vanessa Poustie, Present address: Department of Public Health , University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GB, UK, fax +44 151 252 5240, v.poustie@liv.ac.uk
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Abstract

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Growth failure and poor nutritional status are features of children with chronic disease. Oral protein–energy supplements are one of a number of interventions provided with the aim of improving nutritional status in these children. The present paper describes a Cochrane systematic review assessing the efficacy of these products in children with chronic disease. The objective was to examine the evidence that in children with chronic disease oral protein–energy supplements alter nutrient intake, nutritional indices, survival and quality of life. All randomised controlled trials of the use of oral protein–energy supplements in children with chronic disease were identified through searching electronic databases and hand searching the abstract books of nutrition conferences. Studies identified were independently assessed for eligibility and methodological quality, and data on outcomes of interest were combined in a meta-analysis where possible. Two trials were eligible for inclusion in the review, both of which were undertaken with children with cystic fibrosis. No statistical differences could be found between treatment and control groups when data from both studies were combined. Oral protein–energy supplements are widely used to improve the nutritional status of children with chronic disease. No conclusions can be drawn on the efficacy of these products based on the limited data available. Further randomised controlled trials are required to investigate the use of these products in children with chronic disease. Until further data are available, these products should be used with caution.

Type
Meeting Report
Copyright
Copyright © The Nutrition Society 2003

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