Nutritional deficiencies among adults with beta thalassemia major in Vietnam

To evaluate the nutritional status of adults with beta thalassemia major in Vietnam by analysing body composition parameters and assessing the adequacy of energy, macronutrient and micronutrient intake.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult patients with beta thalassemia major. Nutritional status was assessed using three components: BMI, body composition and dietary intake.

Department of Thalassemia, The National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion in Vietnam.

317 adult patients with beta thalassemia major (54·2 % females, median age 32).

Nearly half (49·5 %) of the patients had a normal BMI, while 18·3 % were severely underweight and 32·2 % were underweight. Severe underweight patients exhibited lower body fat, bone mineral content and visceral fat. Average daily energy intake (1449·9 kcal) was significantly below the estimated requirement (2079·5 kcal), with 81·4 % of patients consuming less than 85 % of their energy needs. Severely underweight patients consumed 12·06 g/d less fat (95 % CI: 6·85, 17·26) and 10·42 g/d less protein (95 % CI: 4·42, 16·42) than normal weight patients. Severe deficiencies in Ca, Mg, Fe and B-complex vitamins were prevalent, with the lowest mean probability of adequacy for minerals and vitamins observed in severely underweight patients.

This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of the nutritional status of beta thalassemia major patients in Vietnam, revealing critical gaps in energy and nutrient intake. Evidence-based strategies, including dietary education and interventions tailored to the unique needs of this population, are urgently needed to improve nutritional outcomes and overall health.