Longitudinal evaluation of a weight reduction program for patients on peritoneal dialysis

Patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) are exposed to glucose-based dialysate solutions with consequent risk of obesity and its attendant health problems. We wished to examine the role of changes in dialysis prescription, individualized dietaryinput, and exercise on body weight and composition.

A 1 year, prospective interventional study integrating the care of the renal nurse, dietitian, and physiotherapist to support, educate, and encourage overweight patients on PD in a weight-reduction program.

Patients were considered for the study if they had been on PD for more than 3 months, had a body mass index (BMI) > 25, and were considered medically fit to undergo the planned exercise program. Recruitment was intentionally limited to a maximum of 12 patients to facilitate group interaction. Weight, BMI, and bioimpedance were measured every 3 months.

8 of 11 enrolled patients completed the study; 3 received transplants. There was a significant fall in median body weight at initiation, from 94.6 kg to 92.4 kg at 6 months and 89.5 kg at 12 months (p = 0.017). This equates to a reduction in BMI from 33.2 (range 26.6 - 38.4) kg/m2 at initiation to 32.1 (range 24.5 - 37.6) kg/m2 at 6 months and 32.1 (range 23.9 - 36.5) kg/m2 at 12 months. There were no significant changes in total body water, lean body mass, or percentage body fat during the study.

7 of 8 patients achieved significant weight loss during the study. The use of an informal group setting motivated patients to continue with exercise and sensible eating patterns. This study demonstrates that, with adequate support, PD patients can achieve and maintain weight loss.