Association between malnutrition and motor/non-motor symptoms in elderly with Parkinson disease

Abstract

Background: Parkinson disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by both movement and non-motor symptoms, potentially contributing to malnutrition. This study aims to investigate the association between malnutrition, assessed through the mini nutritional assessment-short form (MNA-SF), and motor/non-motor symptoms in elderly PD patients.Methods: A total of 48 PD patients were recruited, and their nutritional status was evaluated using MNA-SF. Motor/non-motor symptoms were assessed using the unified Parkinson’s disease rating scale (UPDRS). Statistical analysis was performed using linear regression, considering various covariates such as disease severity, cognitive function, and disease duration.Results: The mean age of the study group was 76.8 years, with 75% displaying abnormal nutritional status. An inverse correlation was evident between MNA-SF and UPDRS I, II, III, and overall scores. Patients with abnormal nutritional status developed severe limitations in daily activities and motor dysfunction. Both motor and non-motor symptoms were associated with malnutrition.Conclusions: This study suggests the significant relationship between nutritional status and motor/non-motor symptoms in elderly PD patients. The prevalence of malnutrition was particularly notable among older PD patients, highlighting the importance of consistent nutritional assessment due to its impact on PD severity. These findings suggest a complex interplay between PD symptoms and malnutrition, warranting further investigation with larger participant cohorts.