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Published on: August 21, 2015
Feeding difficulties in patients with Phenylketonuria
Alexia Diovana Fernandes da Rocha1, Chenia Caldeira Martinez1,2, Lilia Farret Refosco3
1Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre - UFCSPA - Porto Alegre (RS), Brasil.
Children with Phenylketonuria (PKU) show similar feeding difficulties as controls, but have less autonomy and are less likely to be breastfed. They also use bottles more often.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Nutritional Science
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare genetic disorder requiring dietary management.
- Feeding patterns and autonomy in children with PKU are not well understood.
- Early identification of feeding difficulties is crucial for optimal child development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze an instrument for identifying feeding difficulties in children with PKU.
- To compare feeding behaviors in children with PKU versus healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, controlled study involving 40 children with PKU and 46 healthy controls.
- Participants completed the Brazilian Infant Feeding Scale (EBAI) electronically.
- Convenience sampling via social media and outpatient clinic invitations.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in the frequency of suspected feeding difficulties between PKU patients (25%) and controls (28.3%).
- Children with PKU demonstrated significantly less feed autonomy (p=0.005).
- PKU patients were less likely to be breastfed (p=0.002) and more likely to use a baby bottle (p=0.028).
Conclusions:
- Caregiver-reported feeding difficulties were similar in frequency between groups.
- Children with PKU exhibit distinct feeding patterns, including reduced autonomy and altered feeding methods.
- Findings highlight the need for targeted feeding support for children with PKU.
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