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1.
J Child Health Care ; : 13674935221116694, 2022 Aug 11.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35950339

ABSTRACT

This randomised controlled trial examined the efficacy of a brief, group-based parenting program in improving child and family outcomes for families of children with type 1 diabetes. Families (N = 50) of children (2-10 years) with type 1 diabetes were randomly allocated to intervention (n = 22) or care-as-usual (n = 28). Assessments (pre-intervention, post-intervention and 6-month follow-up) evaluated parent- and child-reported parenting behaviour, child behaviour/adjustment and child quality of life (primary outcomes); and metabolic control (routinely-collected blood glucose data), parents' self-efficacy with diabetes management, diabetes-specific child behaviour difficulties, family quality of life, parents' diabetes-related and general parenting stress and observed parent and child behaviour (secondary outcomes). Intent-to-treat analyses indicated greater rate of improvement over time for families allocated to intervention compared to care-as-usual for use of corporal punishment (primary caregivers only), and confidence with managing children's emotions/behaviours, parent-rated child quality of life and adjustment to the child's illness (secondary caregivers only). There were no other intervention effects. Although families found the intervention useful, low levels of psychosocial problems at baseline limited the scope for group-level improvement and there was limited evidence for intervention efficacy. Individually-tailored measures of goal-specific behaviour change may be considered in future research.

2.
Cureus ; 12(8): e9639, 2020 Aug 10.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32923239

ABSTRACT

The ketogenic diet (KD) has gained immense popularity during the last decade, primarily because of its successful short-term effect on weight loss. In the United States, KD is utilized in a variety of patient populations for weight management, despite limited evidence regarding its efficacy and risks. This literature review provides an evaluation of data on the benefits and risks associated with the chronic use of KD, including its metabolic, endocrinological, and cardiovascular effects.

3.
Cureus ; 12(2): e7041, 2020 Feb 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32211273

ABSTRACT

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis is a rare presentation of thyrotoxicosis where the patient develops a transient motor deficit secondary to acute hypokalemia. The thyroid hormone augments gene transcription and post-transcriptional modification of Na-K ATPase, a cell membrane protein that regulates the electrical potential of the cell. Na-K ATPase increases active transport of potassium (K+) ions into the intracellular compartment causing hypokalemia without total body potassium deficit. Severe hypokalemia affects depolarization of the muscle cell membrane, clinically evidenced as paralysis. Other factors that may trigger hypokalemia and paralysis in the setting of hyperthyroidism include diet intake high in carbohydrates and salt, alcohol ingestion, trauma, infections, certain medication, and strenuous exercise. This rare but possible clinical presentation of thyrotoxicosis is significantly more predominant in males of Asian descent. We are reporting a case of a 44-year-old Asian-American male who presented to the emergency department with complaints of acute onset of bilateral lower extremity weakness. He had severe hypokalemia and was diagnosed with primary hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease.

4.
Diabetes Technol Ther ; 22(8): 623-638, 2020 08.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32027176

ABSTRACT

Telediabetes may improve patient access to clinicians who specialize in the management of pediatric diabetes. Due to the diversity of telehealth modes, many different service models for pediatric telediabetes have been developed. This review describes pediatric telediabetes service models identified in the literature, investigates the reported changes in HbA1c of these interventions, and describes enablers and barriers to implementing a telediabetes service. Evaluation of current literature may inform the development and sustainability of telehealth services for pediatric diabetes management. Twenty-nine studies met inclusion criteria and were reviewed. This review has demonstrated that pediatric telediabetes can be delivered by remote monitoring and real-time videoconference modes. Overall, pediatric telediabetes increased interactions between patients and clinicians, improved access to specialized care, and facilitated increased diabetes monitoring. In some contexts, telediabetes also improved short-term glycemic control. Key enablers reported for telediabetes services were integration with existing workflows, dedicated staff, clinician and patient training, appropriate data security, technology with good usability, and the availability of technical support. Barriers included increases in patient responsibilities and clinician workload, and technical issues with equipment and software.


Subject(s)
Diabetes Mellitus , Telemedicine , Child , Humans , Videoconferencing
5.
PLoS One ; 11(3): e0151787, 2016.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-27022913

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Adolescent obesity is difficult to treat and the optimal dietary pattern, particularly in relation to macronutrient composition, remains controversial. This study tested the effect of two structured diets with differing macronutrient composition versus control, on weight, body composition and metabolic parameters in obese adolescents. DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial conducted in a children's hospital. METHODS: Eighty seven obese youth (means: age 13.6 years, BMI z-score 2.2, waist: height ratio 0.65, 69% female) completed a psychological preparedness program and were then randomized to a short term 'structured modified carbohydrate' (SMC, 35% carbohydrate; 30% protein; 35% fat, n = 37) or a 'structured low fat' (SLF, 55% carbohydrate; 20% protein; 25% fat, n = 36) or a wait listed control group (n = 14). Anthropometric, body composition and biochemical parameters were measured at randomization and after 12 weeks, and analyzed under the intention to treat principle using analysis of variance models. RESULTS: After 12 weeks, data was collected from 79 (91%) participants. BMI z-scores were significantly lower in both intervention groups compared to control after adjusting for baseline values, SLF vs. control, mean difference = -0.13 (95%CI = -0.18, -0.07), P<0.001; SMC vs. control, -0.14 (-0.19, -0.09), P<0.001, but there was no difference between the two intervention diet groups: SLF vs. SMC, 0.00 (-0.05, 0.04), P = 0.83. CONCLUSIONS: Both dietary patterns resulted in similar changes in weight, body composition and metabolic improvements compared to control. The use of a structured eating system which allows flexibility but limited choices can assist in weight change and the rigid application of a low fat eating pattern is not exclusive in its efficacy. TRIAL REGISTRATION: International Clinical Trials Registry ISRCTN49438757.


Subject(s)
Body Composition , Nutritional Physiological Phenomena , Pediatric Obesity/metabolism , Weight Loss , Adolescent , Anthropometry , Demography , Diet , Energy Metabolism , Female , Follow-Up Studies , Humans , Male , Patient Selection
6.
Obes Res Clin Pract ; 7(2): e147-e154, 2013.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24331776

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To explore which baseline physiological and psychosocial variables predict change in body mass index (BMI) z-score in obese youth after 12 weeks of a dietary weight management study. METHODS: Participants were obese young people participating in a dietary intervention trial in Brisbane Australia. The outcome variable was change in BMI z-score. Potential predictors considered included demographic, physiological and psychosocial parameters of the young person, and demographic characteristics of their parents. A multivariable regression model was constructed to examine the effect of potential predictive variables. RESULTS: Participants (n = 88) were predominantly female (69.3%), and had a mean(standard deviation) age of 13.1(1.9) years and BMI z-score of 2.2(0.4) on presentation. Lower BMI z-score (p < 0.001) and insulin resistance (p = 0.04) at baseline, referral from a paediatrician (p = 0.02) and being more socially advantaged (p = 0.046) were significantly associated with weight loss. Macronutrient distribution of diet and physical activity level did not contribute. CONCLUSIONS: Early intervention in obesity treatment in young people improves likelihood of success. Other factors such as degree of insulin resistance, social advantage and referral source also appear to play a role. Assessing presenting characteristics and factors associated with treatment outcome may allow practicing clinicians to individualise a weight management program or determine the 'best-fit' treatment for an obese adolescent.


Subject(s)
Body Mass Index , Body Weight , Obesity/diet therapy , Referral and Consultation , Weight Loss , Weight Reduction Programs , Adolescent , Australia , Body Composition , Child , Diet, Reducing , Female , Humans , Insulin Resistance , Male , Obesity/psychology , Parents , Social Class , Treatment Outcome
8.
Pediatr Diabetes ; 14(1): 31-41, 2013 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-22913562

ABSTRACT

Vitamin D is synthesised in the skin through the action of UVB radiation (sunlight), and 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD) measured in serum as a marker of vitamin D status. Several studies, mostly conducted in high latitudes, have shown an association between type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and low serum 25OHD. We conducted a case-control study to determine whether, in a sub-tropical environment with abundant sunlight (latitude 27.5°S), children with T1DM have lower serum vitamin D than children without diabetes. Fifty-six children with T1DM (14 newly diagnosed) and 46 unrelated control children participated in the study. Serum 25OHD, 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D (1,25(OH)(2) D) and selected biochemical indices were measured. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms Taq1, Fok1, and Apa1 were genotyped. Fitzpatrick skin classification, self-reported daily hours of outdoor exposure, and mean UV index over the 35 d prior to blood collection were recorded. Serum 25OHD was lower in children with T1DM (n = 56) than in controls (n = 46) [mean (95%CI) = 78.7 (71.8-85.6) nmol/L vs. 91.4 (83.5-98.7) nmol/L, p = 0.02]. T1DM children had lower self-reported outdoor exposure and mean UV exposure, but no significant difference in distribution of VDR polymorphisms. 25OHD remained lower in children with T1DM after covariate adjustment. Children newly diagnosed with T1DM had lower 1,25(OH)(2) D [median (IQR) = 89 (68-122) pmol/L] than controls [121 (108-159) pmol/L, p = 0.03], or children with established diabetes [137 (113-153) pmol/L, p = 0.01]. Children with T1DM have lower 25OHD than controls, even in an environment of abundant sunlight. Whether low vitamin D is a risk factor or consequence of T1DM is unknown.


Subject(s)
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/blood , Vitamin D/blood , Adolescent , Australia/epidemiology , Case-Control Studies , Child , Child, Preschool , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/complications , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/epidemiology , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/genetics , Female , Humans , Male , Parathyroid Hormone/blood , Polymorphism, Restriction Fragment Length/physiology , Receptors, Calcitriol/genetics , Vitamin D Deficiency/complications , Vitamin D Deficiency/epidemiology , Vitamin D Deficiency/genetics
9.
J Telemed Telecare ; 18(1): 37-41, 2012 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-22101608

ABSTRACT

We reviewed web-based interventions for overweight and obesity prevention. A literature search was conducted using seven electronic databases. Manually searched articles were also included. Thirty studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Of these, 13 studied physical activity, eight studied dietary practices and nine studied a combination of physical activity and dietary practice. Twenty-eight of the studies (93%) reported positive changes in moderate to vigorous physical activity level, fruit and vegetable intake and psychological factors. A meta-analysis showed there were improvements, though not significant, in fruit and vegetable consumption (standardised mean difference, SMD = 0.61; 95% CI =-0.13 to 1.35) and physical activity (SMD = 0.15; 95% CI =-0.06 to 0.35). The review suggests that web-based interventions are a useful educational tool for increasing awareness and making healthy behaviour changes in relation to an excessive weight gain problem.


Subject(s)
Health Promotion/methods , Internet , Overweight/prevention & control , Patient Education as Topic/methods , Weight Gain , Diet , Exercise , Humans , Risk Reduction Behavior
11.
J Paediatr Child Health ; 47(1-2): 2-4, 2011 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-20500431

ABSTRACT

We describe the characteristics of adolescents seeking treatment for obesity via the 'Eat Smart' feasibility study; an intensive 12 week dietitian-led weight management programme with an emphasis on lifestyle change. It was designed to test the feasibility of a structured low-fat diet compared with a semi-structured reduced carbohydrate plan compared with a model of 'standard care'- an unstructured low fat approach. When compared with non-participants, participants were predominantly female and lived in lower socioeconomic areas. When given the choice of dietary approach, 50% elected reduced dietary carbohydrate, 43% structured low fat and 7% chose 'standard care'. Modest weight loss was achieved over 12 weeks, with both the structured low fat and reduced carbohydrate formats. Families showed a strong preference for structured eating plans, in particular seeking assistance with correct portion size. The current standard model of unstructured advice was both unpopular and relatively unsuccessful.


Subject(s)
Diet, Carbohydrate-Restricted/methods , Diet, Fat-Restricted/methods , Obesity/diet therapy , Adolescent , Body Mass Index , Comorbidity , Diet, Carbohydrate-Restricted/psychology , Diet, Fat-Restricted/psychology , Feasibility Studies , Female , Health Services Accessibility , Humans , Male , Obesity/psychology , Queensland , Socioeconomic Factors , Standard of Care , Weight Loss/physiology
12.
BMC Public Health ; 10: 464, 2010 Aug 09.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-20696032

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Despite the recognition of obesity in young people as a key health issue, there is limited evidence to inform health professionals regarding the most appropriate treatment options. The Eat Smart study aims to contribute to the knowledge base of effective dietary strategies for the clinical management of the obese adolescent and examine the cardiometablic effects of a reduced carbohydrate diet versus a low fat diet. METHODS AND DESIGN: Eat Smart is a randomised controlled trial and aims to recruit 100 adolescents over a 2 1/2 year period. Families will be invited to participate following referral by their health professional who has recommended weight management. Participants will be overweight as defined by a body mass index (BMI) greater than the 90th percentile, using CDC 2000 growth charts. An accredited 6-week psychological life skills program 'FRIENDS for Life', which is designed to provide behaviour change and coping skills will be undertaken prior to volunteers being randomised to group. The intervention arms include a structured reduced carbohydrate or a structured low fat dietary program based on an individualised energy prescription. The intervention will involve a series of dietetic appointments over 24 weeks. The control group will commence the dietary program of their choice after a 12 week period. Outcome measures will be assessed at baseline, week 12 and week 24. The primary outcome measure will be change in BMI z-score. A range of secondary outcome measures including body composition, lipid fractions, inflammatory markers, social and psychological measures will be measured. DISCUSSION: The chronic and difficult nature of treating the obese adolescent is increasingly recognised by clinicians and has highlighted the need for research aimed at providing effective intervention strategies, particularly for use in the tertiary setting. A structured reduced carbohydrate approach may provide a dietary pattern that some families will find more sustainable and effective than the conventional low fat dietary approach currently advocated. This study aims to investigate the acceptability and effectiveness of a structured reduced dietary carbohydrate intervention and will compare the outcomes of this approach with a structured low fat eating plan. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The protocol for this study is registered with the International Clinical Trials Registry (ISRCTN49438757).


Subject(s)
Dietary Carbohydrates/metabolism , Dietary Fats/metabolism , Obesity/diet therapy , Weight Loss , Adolescent , Child , Dietary Carbohydrates/administration & dosage , Dietary Fats/administration & dosage , Female , Humans , Male
13.
J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab ; 23(3): 293-5, 2010 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-20480730

ABSTRACT

Rotavirus gastroenteritis was complicated by Klebsiella Pneumoniae bacteraemia in two infants with glucocorticoid deficient conditions who were treated with 'stress dose' hydrocortisone during their illness. Delayed healing in the context of glucocorticoid administration combined with damage from rotavirus infection may result in increased risk of mucosal invasion by gastrointestinal bacteria and subsequent enteric gram-negative bacteraemia.


Subject(s)
Bacteremia/complications , Gastroenteritis/complications , Glucocorticoids/deficiency , Klebsiella Infections/complications , Klebsiella pneumoniae , Rotavirus Infections/complications , Adrenal Hyperplasia, Congenital/complications , Adrenal Hyperplasia, Congenital/drug therapy , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/adverse effects , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use , Bacteremia/drug therapy , Bacteremia/microbiology , Gastroenteritis/drug therapy , Humans , Hydrocortisone/adverse effects , Hydrocortisone/therapeutic use , Hypopituitarism/complications , Hypopituitarism/congenital , Hypopituitarism/drug therapy , Infant , Klebsiella Infections/drug therapy , Klebsiella Infections/microbiology , Male , Rotavirus Infections/drug therapy , Treatment Outcome
14.
J Clin Endocrinol Metab ; 95(1): 297-302, 2010 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-19933394

ABSTRACT

CONTEXT: Glucocorticoid resistance is a rare genetic condition characterized by reduced sensitivity to cortisol signaling and subsequent hyperactivation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to confirm the diagnosis of glucocorticoid resistance in the patient, to determine the degree of suppression of cortisol and ACTH levels in response to dexamethasone, and to determine the underlying genetic abnormality and functional consequences of the mutation. PATIENT AND METHODS: The patient presented on the first day of life with profound hypoglycemia. Initial cortisol levels were appropriately elevated; however, the patient was found to have persistently elevated levels of both cortisol and ACTH. The baby developed a tanned appearance and severe hypertension and fatigued easily with feeding. Serial oral dexamethasone suppression tests were performed with doses escalating from 0.125 mg to 12 mg dexamethasone given at 2300 h. Sequencing of the glucocorticoid receptor gene was performed along with functional studies of the glucocorticoid receptor. GH secretion was assessed with an arginine glucagon stimulation test. RESULTS: Cortisol and ACTH levels did not suppress with doses of up to 12 mg dexamethasone. A 2-bp deletion was found at amino acid position 773 of the glucocorticoid receptor ligand binding domain. A complete lack of dexamethasone binding and in vitro biological effect was demonstrated. GH stimulation testing was consistent with GH deficiency. CONCLUSION: The homozygous mutation in the ligand-binding domain of the glucocorticoid receptor gene resulted in a functionally inactive glucocorticoid receptor and apparent complete glucocorticoid resistance with biochemical GH deficiency.


Subject(s)
Drug Resistance/genetics , Glucocorticoids/pharmacology , Human Growth Hormone/deficiency , Mutation , Receptors, Glucocorticoid/genetics , Amino Acid Sequence , Base Sequence , DNA Mutational Analysis , Glucocorticoids/metabolism , Growth Disorders/complications , Growth Disorders/diagnosis , Growth Disorders/genetics , Homozygote , Humans , Infant, Newborn , Ligands , Male , Mutation/physiology , Neonatal Screening , Parents , Protein Interaction Domains and Motifs/genetics , Protein Structure, Secondary/genetics , Receptors, Glucocorticoid/chemistry , Receptors, Glucocorticoid/metabolism
15.
Br J Sports Med ; 44(4): 250-5, 2010 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-18463296

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To explore the feasibility of conducting a 10-week home-based physical activity (PA) programme and evaluate the changes in insulin sensitivity (S(I)) commensurate with the programme in obese young people. DESIGN: Open-labelled intervention. SETTING: Home-based intervention with clinical assessments at a tertiary paediatric hospital. SUBJECTS: 18 obese (body mass index (BMI)>International Obesity Task Force age and sex-specific cut-offs) children and adolescents (8-18 years, 11 girls/7 boys) were recruited. 15 participants (nine girls/six boys, mean+/-SE age 11.8+/-0.6 years, BMI-SD scores (BMI-SDS) 3.5+/-0.1, six prepubertal/nine pubertal) completed the intervention. INTERVENTION: The programme comprised biweekly home visits over 10 weeks with personalised plans implemented aiming to increase moderate-intensity PA. Pedometers and PA diaries were used as self-monitoring tools. The goals were to (1) teach participants behavioural skills related to adopting and maintaining an active lifestyle and (2) increase daily participation in PA. OUTCOME MEASURES: Mean steps/day were assessed. S(I) assessed by the frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test and other components of the insulin resistance syndrome were measured. RESULTS: Mean steps/day increased significantly from 10 363+/-927 (baseline) to 13 013+/-1131 (week 10) (p<0.05). S(I) was also significantly increased, despite no change in BMI-SDS, and remained so after an additional 10-week follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that such a home-based PA programme is feasible. S(I) improved without changes in BMI-SDS. More rigorous evaluations of such programmes are warranted.


Subject(s)
Exercise Therapy/methods , Home Care Services , Obesity/therapy , Adolescent , Anthropometry , Blood Pressure/physiology , Body Composition , Child , Diet , Energy Intake , Feasibility Studies , Female , Glucose Tolerance Test , Humans , Insulin/metabolism , Lipids/blood , Male , Medical Records , Obesity/blood , Patient Education as Topic
16.
Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) ; 69(6): 926-30, 2008 Dec.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-18494865

ABSTRACT

CONTEXT: Familial neurohypophyseal diabetes insipidus (FNDI) is a rare disorder resulting from arginine vasopressin (AVP) gene mutations. A partial defect in AVP secretion occurs early in the course of FNDI and may not be detected by a water deprivation test (WDT). Testing for AVP gene mutations may confirm a diagnosis of FNDI when a WDT is inconclusive and may also predict individuals who will later develop FNDI. OBJECTIVE: To test the utility of AVP gene analysis in confirming the diagnosis of FNDI. PATIENTS: Five families (20 subjects, 14 symptomatic and six asymptomatic) with FNDI and nine children with idiopathic neurohypophyseal diabetes insipidus (INDI). MEASUREMENTS: Genomic DNA was analysed for AVP gene mutations using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and sequencing. RESULTS: Heterozygous AVP gene mutations were found in all subjects with FNDI but none of the ICDI patients. Each family had their own distinct mutation. We identified two novel mutations (C44W and C105S). One asymptomatic subject developed diabetes insipidus (DI) 4 months after detection of an AVP gene mutation. The WDT suggested partial DI in 4/6 but was normal in 2/6 children with FNDI. CONCLUSION: AVP gene testing allowed diagnostic confirmation of FNDI when the WDT was inconclusive in symptomatic children, therefore obviating the need for a repeat WDT and enabling earlier initiation of appropriate treatment. AVP gene testing also has the potential to identify which asymptomatic children will later develop FNDI.


Subject(s)
Arginine Vasopressin/genetics , Diabetes Insipidus, Neurogenic/genetics , Arginine Vasopressin/metabolism , Child , Child, Preschool , Female , Humans , Male , Pituitary Gland, Posterior/abnormalities , Water Deprivation
17.
Med J Aust ; 185(5): 268-72, 2006 Sep 04.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16948623

ABSTRACT

Vitamin D deficiency has re-emerged as a significant paediatric health issue, with complications including hypocalcaemic seizures, rickets, limb pain and fracture. A major risk factor for infants is maternal vitamin D deficiency. For older infants and children, risk factors include dark skin colour, cultural practices, prolonged breastfeeding, restricted sun exposure and certain medical conditions. To prevent vitamin D deficiency in infants, pregnant women, especially those who are dark-skinned or veiled, should be screened and treated for vitamin D deficiency, and breastfed infants of dark-skinned or veiled women should be supplemented with vitamin D for the first 12 months of life. Regular sunlight exposure can prevent vitamin D deficiency, but the safe exposure time for children is unknown. To prevent vitamin D deficiency, at-risk children should receive 400 IU vitamin D daily; if compliance is poor, an annual dose of 150,000 IU may be considered. Treatment of vitamin D deficiency involves giving ergocalciferol or cholecalciferol for 3 months (1000 IU/day if < 1 month of age; 3000 IU/day if 1-12 months of age; 5000 IU/day if > 12 months of age). High-dose bolus therapy (300,000-500,000 IU) should be considered for children over 12 months of age if compliance or absorption issues are suspected.


Subject(s)
Vitamin D Deficiency/therapy , Vitamin D/therapeutic use , Adolescent , Australia , Child , Child, Preschool , Diet , Dietary Supplements , Humans , Infant , Infant, Newborn , New Zealand , Sunlight , Vitamin D/blood , Vitamin D Deficiency/etiology , Vitamin D Deficiency/prevention & control
18.
J Paediatr Child Health ; 41(7): 317-22, 2005 Jul.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16014134

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Pubertal delay is thought to contribute to suboptimal peak bone mass acquisition in young people with cystic fibrosis (CF), leading to an increased fracture incidence. This study aims to compare pubertal development in young people with CF with that of a local healthy population and assess the influence it has on areal bone mineral density (aBMD). METHODS: Tanner stage, age of menarche, bone age (BA), sex hormone levels and aBMD were examined in 85 individuals with CF (aged 5.3-18.1 years, 39 females) and 100 local controls (5.6-17.9 years, 54 females). RESULTS: Tanner stage and age of menarche were not significantly different between controls and CF. Tanner stage-adjusted mean values for follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone (T) were lower in males with CF (FSH: P = 0.004, LH: P = 0.01 and T: P = 0.002). Bone age was delayed in adolescents with CF compared to controls (chronological age-BA: controls = 0.13 years (SE = 0.16), CF = 0.95 years (SE = 0.22), P = 0.003). Areal bone mineral density (adjusted for age, sex, height and lean tissue mass) was not significantly different between CF and controls. Moderate negative correlations were found between delayed BA and weight (r = -0.41, P < 0.001) and height (r = -0.41, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: There was no evidence of clinical pubertal delay or low aBMD (adjusted for short stature and lean tissue mass) in young people with CF when compared with a local population, despite lower nutritional markers, height and weight and delayed skeletal maturation.


Subject(s)
Bone Density , Cystic Fibrosis/physiopathology , Puberty, Delayed/physiopathology , Adolescent , Australia , Child , Child, Preschool , Cystic Fibrosis/pathology , Female , Gonadal Steroid Hormones/physiology , Humans , Male
19.
Med J Aust ; 182(3): 130-5, 2005 Feb 07.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-15698360

ABSTRACT

Obesity in children and adolescents has reached alarming levels--20%-25% of children and adolescents are overweight or obese, and 4.9% of boys and 5.4% of girls are obese. Rates of obesity have increased significantly in Australia from 1985 to 1995, with the prevalence of overweight doubling and obesity trebling. Body mass index (related to reference standards for age and sex) is recommended as a practical measure of overweight and obesity in children, and is used in monitoring individual progress in clinical practice. Obesity in childhood and adolescence may be associated with a range of medical and psychological complications, and can predispose individuals to serious health problems in adult life, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidaemia and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Obesity interventions for which there is some evidence include family support, a developmentally appropriate approach, long-term behaviour modification, dietary change, and increased physical activity and decreased sedentary behaviour. Prevention of obesity in children and adolescents requires a range of strategies involving changes in both the microenvironment (eg, housing, neighbourhoods, recreational opportunities) and the macroenvironment (eg, food marketing, transport systems, urban planning).


Subject(s)
Bariatrics/methods , Obesity/prevention & control , Adolescent , Anti-Obesity Agents/therapeutic use , Appetite Depressants/therapeutic use , Behavior Therapy/methods , Body Mass Index , Child , Child, Preschool , Fatty Liver/etiology , Fatty Liver/prevention & control , Feeding Behavior , Female , Humans , Insulin Resistance , Life Style , Male , Obesity/complications , Obesity/diagnosis , Obesity/drug therapy , Risk Factors
20.
J Cyst Fibros ; 3(3): 143-9, 2004 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-15463900

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Serum vitamin A, normally depressed in inflammatory conditions, is frequently low in people with CF. Vitamin A is important in respiratory epithelial regeneration and repair. We hypothesised that serum vitamin A would be associated with inflammation and disease severity. METHODS: Serum vitamin A (as retinol), C-reactive protein (CRP), vitamin E, 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD), 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D (1,25(OH)(2)D), weight, and lumbar spine bone mineral density (LSBMD) were measured in 138 subjects with CF (5-56 years) and 138 control subjects (5-48 years). FEV(1), presence of CF liver disease (CFLD) and hospital admissions were recorded in those with CF. RESULTS: Serum vitamin A level was lower in CF subjects than in controls (mean, 95% CI: 1.29, 1.0-1.37 vs. 1.80, 1.7-1.87 micromol/l, p < 0.0001), and inversely correlated with CRP (r(s) = -0.37, p < 0.0001). CF subjects with low vitamin A (45%) level had poorer FEV(1), weight z-score, LSBMD z-score, and higher CRP compared with those with normal levels. In the CF group CRP, vitamin E, 1,25(OH)(2)D, presence of CFLD, admissions, and age were associated with vitamin A level. CONCLUSIONS: Serum vitamin A is negatively associated with CRP in subjects with CF, consistent with normal population studies. It is important to distinguish between low serum vitamin A associated with the inflammatory response and that due to poor nutritional stores. The role of vitamin A in CF warrants further study, in the contexts both of chronic recurrent inflammatory disease and acute pulmonary exacerbation.


Subject(s)
Cystic Fibrosis/blood , Cystic Fibrosis/immunology , Vitamin A/blood , Adolescent , Adult , Age Factors , Child , Child, Preschool , Female , Humans , Inflammation/blood , Male , Middle Aged , Severity of Illness Index
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