Evaluation of nutritional status of hemodialysis patients by hand grip strength

Introduction: Malnutrition (MN) is a typical complication among hemodialysis patients which is associated with morbidity and mortality rates. This cross-sectional study investigated different indices in detecting MN in hemodialysis patients. Materials and Methods: MN assessment was performed using subjective [Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) and Dialysis Malnutrition Score (DMS)] and objective techniques [Hand Grip Strength (HGS)] on patients undergoing hemodialysis 3 times a week in Semnan Province (Iran). SGA and DMS were evaluated by their specific check-lists and HGS analysis was performed using a handgrip dynamometer. The dietary intake of hemodialysis patients was determined using a 4-day dietary recall. Moreover, 4 ml blood sample was obtained from each patient to measure serum biochemical parameters. Results: Amongst 116 enrolled patients, 61 were male and 55 were female. The total prevalence of MN in terms of SGA, DMS, and HGS was 74.2, 58.6, and 63% respectively. Moreover, the association of SGA with age and of DMS with age, gender, and time of hemodialysis were shown. For HGS, not only these factors but also biochemical parameters showed a relationship. This index was associated with serum Albumin and inflammatory marker, hsCRP. Conclusion: Simple and easily accessible tools like handheld dynamometers can verify to be a good nutrition assessment technique for hemodialysis patients in combination with SGA or DMS.