Influence of dysphagia risk on body composition and dietary habits in adults with multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and demyelinating disease of the central nervous system with a high prevalence of dysphagia (43.3%), increasing the risk of aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition and dehydration.

This study aimed to (i) describe the sociodemographic and anthropometric characteristics of adults with MS; (ii) estimate the risk of dysphagia and evaluate speech and oropharyngeal impairments in relation to this risk and (iii) examine dietary patterns and nutritional status indicators according to the presence or absence of dysphagia risk.

An observational, cross-sectional and analytical study was conducted in 52 patients with MS from Granada. Body composition was assessed by multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (NUTRILAB). Dietary intake was recorded using three 24-hour recalls and a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Data were processed using Dietowin software. The speech and language-therapy assessment included the Yale Swallow Protocol, TOMASS and a taste perception protocol.

57.7% of participants were at risk of dysphagia. 'Double texture alert' and 'salivation alteration' were significantly more frequent in the at-risk group. No significant differences were found between participants with and without dysphagia risk in anthropometric measures - excepting FFM and BMR - or nutrient intake. However, 61.5% of the sample showed excess body weight and altered intake of macro- and micronutrients. Moreover, more than 50% of participants exhibited inadequacies in consumption habits across most food groups.

A high prevalence of dysphagia risk was observed. Patients at risk tended to show higher BMI, inadequate intake and taste alterations. These findings highlight the need for early screening and interdisciplinary, individualised nutritional and speech therapy interventions.