Overweight and obesity in PKU: The results from 8 centres in Europe and Turkey

Abstract

Introduction

In PKU there is little data comparing the prevalence of overweight and obesity in different countries. The aim of this cross sectional study was to evaluate prevalence data from different PKU treatment centres in Europe and Turkey.

Subjects and methods

In children, body mass index (BMI) and z scores and in adults BMI were calculated in 947 patients (783 children aged < 19 years; 164 adults aged ≥ 19 years) with PKU from centres in Europe and Turkey (Ankara, Birmingham, Brussels, Copenhagen, Groningen, Madrid, Munich and Porto).

Results

In adults with PKU, 83% of centres (n = 5/6) had less overweight than the general populations but 83% (n = 5/6) had a higher rate of female obesity. In childhood, all centres reported obesity rates within or similar to local population ranges in boys but in 57% (n = 4/7) of centres a higher rate of obesity in girls. The percentage of overweight and obesity increased with age.

Discussion

In PKU, it is clear from a number of treatment centres that women and girls with PKU appear particularly vulnerable to excess weight gain and it is important that female weight gain is closely monitored and individual strategies introduced to prevent excess weight gain. Overall, in PKU there is a need to understand better the food patterns and activity levels of patients.

Highlights

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  This is the first multicentre study in PKU across Europe/Turkey reporting prevalence of overweight and obesity in 947 patients.

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  In adult centres, 83% had less overweight/obesity then the general populations.

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  In adult centres, 83% had a higher rate of female obesity.

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  In children, all centres reported obesity rates within or similar to local population ranges in boys

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  In children, 57% of centres reported a higher rate of obesity in girls.