Prevalence and factors associated with overweight and obesity in adults with cystic fibrosis: A single-center analysis

Prevalence of psychotropic medication dispensing to people living with cystic fibrosis in Australia: 2013-2022

OBJECTIVE

People living with cystic fibrosis (PwCF) are at increased risk of mental health conditions. There is little evidence addressing psychotropic medication use in PwCF. This study aimed to estimate the dispensing prevalence of antidepressant, anxiolytic, antipsychotic, psychostimulant, and hypnotic/sedative medication in PwCF in Australia between 2013 and 2022.

METHOD

A 10% random sample of Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme data was used to identify PwCF and their medications between 2013 and 2022. Annual prevalence of psychotropic medication dispensing was estimated using a 3-year rolling average, stratified by sex, age, and medication class.

RESULTS

Psychotropic medications were dispensed to 206/478 (41.3%) PwCF. Antidepressant and anxiolytic dispensing prevalence was highest in adult females, increasing from 201 5 by 50% to their peak in 2021 (antidepressants 36.8%; anxiolytics 12.3%). Psychostimulant prevalence was highest in adolescent males and increased over three-fold during the study period from 3.6% to 13.2%. The prevalence of antipsychotic medication was lower than other classes with adult females having the highest prevalence (3.1% and 5.8% in 201 5 and 2022 respectively). Hypnotic/sedative medications remained consistently low or decreased in all groups except male children, where it increased from 0.6% to 2.8% from 201 5 to 2022.

CONCLUSION

Psychotropic medication use is higher among Australian PwCF compared to the general population, with varying prevalence across age and sex groups. This is of interest due to complexities with CF comorbidities and potential medication influences and interactions. Future studies should investigate the reasons for psychotropic use disparities within PwCF with the aim to establish targeted guidelines and optimize outcomes.

Evolution of nutritional management in children with cystic fibrosis - a narrative review

Nutrition has played a central role in the management and outcomes of people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) since the 1970s. Advances in therapies and practices in recent decades have led to a significant change in the patient landscape with dramatic improvements in life expectancy, as well as quality of life, bringing with it new issues. Historically, cystic fibrosis was a condition associated with childhood and malnutrition; however, changes in patient demographics, nutritional assessment and fundamental nutritional management have evolved, and it has become an increasingly prevalent adult disease with new nutritional challenges, including obesity. This paper aims to describe these changes and the impact and challenges they bring for those working in this field. Nutritional professionals will need to evolve, adapt and remain agile to the wider range of situations and support required for a new generation of pwCF. Specialised nutrition support will continue to be required, and it will be additionally important to improve and optimise quality of life and long-term health.

Predicting weight gain in patients with cystic fibrosis on triple combination modulator

BACKGROUND

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene mutations producing dysfunctional CFTR proteins leading to progressive clinical disease. Elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor (ETI) remarkably improves lung disease but is associated with substantial weight gain.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a single-center longitudinal study predicting 6-month weight gain after ETI initiation. We used linear mixed effects modeling (LME) to determine association of ETI treatment with changing body mass index (BMI). Using linear regression, we examined BMI prediction models with distinct combinations of main effects to identify a model useful for patient counseling. We used up to eight commonly observed clinical characteristics as input variables (age, sex, percent predicted FEV1 [FEV1%], F508del homozygous state, pancreatic sufficiency, HgbA1c, prior modulator use and prior year number of pulmonary exacerbations).

RESULTS

We evaluated 154 patients (19-73 years old, 54% female, FEV1% = 19-121, 0-6 prior year pulmonary exacerbations). LME demonstrated an association between ETI use and weight increases. Exhaustive testing suggested a parsimonious linear regression model well-fitted to data that is potentially useful for counseling. The two variable model shows that on average, BMI decreases by 0.045 (95% Confidence Interval [CI] = -0.069 to -0.021, p < 0.001) for every year of age and increases by 0.322 (CI = 0.142 to 0.502, p = 0.001) for each additional prior year exacerbation at the time of ETI initiation.

INTERPRETATION

Young patients with many prior year pulmonary exacerbations likely have the largest 6 month weight gain after starting ETI.

Impact of elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor on lipid and fat-soluble vitamin levels and association with body mass index

INTRODUCTION

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators improve gastrointestinal absorption of nutrients and may result in changes in body mass index (BMI), serum lipids, and fat-soluble vitamin levels. We hypothesized that serum lipids and vitamin levels would increase with CFTR modulator therapy and that greater increase in lipids and vitamin levels would be related to greater increase in BMI.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed to evaluate the impact of elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI) on nutritional parameters, serum lipids, and fat-soluble vitamin levels. Pre-ETI values (<2 years prior) and post-ETI values (>1 month after) were compared. Linear regression was used to evaluate whether change in BMI is associated with the change in lipid and/or vitamin levels and whether modulator duration is associated with the degree of rise in lipid and/or vitamin levels.

RESULTS

Adults and adolescents with CF (n = 137) were evaluated before and 31-300 days after starting ETI. Median BMI (adults 21.9 vs. 23.5 kg/m2 ; adolescents 48 vs. 63 percentile) increased after initiation of ETI. Total cholesterol (126 vs. 154 mg/dL), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (63 vs. 78 mg/dL), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (84 vs. 102 mg/dL), and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (43 vs. 49 mg/dL) increased after ETI, while triglycerides and very low density lipoprotein did not change. Median values for vitamin D (34.5 vs. 38.0 ng/mL) and vitamin A (40.1 vs. 47.9 µg/dL) increased, while vitamin E did not change significantly. There was no significant correlation between BMI change or duration of modulator therapy with vitamin levels or lipid changes.

CONCLUSION

After initiation of ETI therapy, serum lipids increased in our population, but most values remained within the normal range. Vitamins A and D levels increased post-ETI and no changes were noted in vitamin E. No significant correlation between the degree of BMI change and the magnitude of increase in lipids or vitamin levels was found.

Longitudinal changes in habitual physical activity in adult people with cystic fibrosis in the presence or absence of treatment with elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor

Background

Habitual physical activity (PA) and exercise training are accepted as important aspects of care for people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) to improve health-related measures of physical fitness, which in turn have a positive impact on quality of life and prognosis. In the last decade, effective CFTR modulator therapies have become a promising treatment for pwCF by targeting the underlying cause of CF. This highly effective therapy improves clinical outcomes and quality of life in people with specific CFTR mutations. Little is known about the longitudinal pattern of PA or the impact of the highly effective modulator therapy with Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor (ETI) on PA in adult pwCF. This study assessed the course of device-based PA measurement in adult pwCF and evaluated the effects of ETI on habitual physical activity in those who were eligible for ETI.

Methods

Data from adult pwCF (aged ≥18 years) were analysed at baseline and follow-up, using identical assessments at both time points. Outcome parameters were PA in steps/day and the intensity of PA. The group that received ETI was treated for an average of 33 weeks and not for the entire duration of the period. The data were collected between 2021 and 2022, following the removal of absolute pandemic restrictions/lockdowns.

Results

Follow-up duration was 5.6 years in pwCF with ETI (ETI group, n = 21) and 6.5 years in pwCF without ETI (non-ETI group, n = 6). From baseline to follow-up, pwCF treated with ETI had a significant increase in steps/day (+25%, p = 0.019) and a non-significant increase in moderate-to-vigorous intensity time (+5.6%, p = 0.352). Conversely, individuals in the non-ETI group showed a non-significant decrease in both steps/day -3.2%, p = 0.893) and moderate-to-vigorous intensity time (-25%, p = 0.207). The ETI group showed a significant decrease in percent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s (ppFEV1) and FEV1 z-score before the start of ETI treatment, both of which improved significantly after therapy initiation. Body weight and body mass index also improved significantly with ETI use.

Conclusions

These data suggest that ETI treatment has a positive effect on habitual physical activity behavior in the adult pwCF studied.

ESPEN-ESPGHAN-ECFS guideline on nutrition care for cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Nutritional status is paramount in Cystic Fibrosis (CF) and is directly correlated with morbidity and mortality. The first ESPEN-ESPGHAN-ECFS guidelines on nutrition care for infants, children, and adults with CF were published in 2016. An update to these guidelines is presented.

METHODS

The study was developed by an international multidisciplinary working group in accordance with officially accepted standards. Literature since 2016 was reviewed, PICO questions were discussed and the GRADE system was utilized. Statements were discussed and submitted for on-line voting by the Working Group and by all ESPEN members.

RESULTS

The Working Group updated the nutritional guidelines including assessment and management at all ages. Supplementation of vitamins and pancreatic enzymes remains largely the same. There are expanded chapters on pregnancy, CF-related liver disease, and CF-related diabetes, bone disease, nutritional and mineral supplements, and probiotics. There are new chapters on nutrition with highly effective modulator therapies and nutrition after organ transplantation.

Efficacy and safety profile of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor triple therapy on cystic fibrosis: a systematic review and single arm meta-analysis

Background: Elexacaftor-Tezacaftor-Ivacaftor (ELE/TEZ/IVA) is believed to be an effective and well-tolerated treatment for cystic fibrosis (CF), but the exact efficacy and safety profile are still unknown. Objective: This study aimed to clarify the extent of functional restoration when patients are given with triple combination treatment and demonstrate the prevalence of adverse events, to evaluate the overall profile of ELE/TEZ/IVA on CF. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library. Random effects single-arm meta-analysis was performed to decipher the basal characteristics of CF, the improvement and safety profile after ELE/TEZ/IVA treatment. Results: A total 53 studies were included in this analysis. For all the patients in included studies. 4 weeks after ELE/TEZ/IVA treatment, the increasement of percentage of predicted Forced Expiratory Volume in the first second (ppFEV1) was 9.23% (95%CI, 7.77%-10.70%), the change of percentage of predicted Forced Vital Capacity (ppFVC) was 7.67% (95%CI, 2.15%-13.20%), and the absolute change of Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised (CFQ-R) score was 21.46 points (95%CI, 18.26-24.67 points). The Sweat chloride (SwCl) was significantly decreased with the absolute change of -41.82 mmol/L (95%CI, -44.38 to -39.25 mmol/L). 24 weeks after treatment, the increasement of ppFEV1 was 12.57% (95%CI, 11.24%-13.90%), the increasement of ppFVC was 10.44% (95%CI, 7.26%-13.63%), and the absolute change of CFQ-R score was 19.29 points (95%CI, 17.19-21.39 points). The SwCl was significantly decreased with the absolute change of -51.53 mmol/L (95%CI, -56.12 to -46.94 mmol/L). The lung clearance index2.5 (LCI2.5) was also decreased by 1.74 units (95%CI, -2.42 to -1.07 units). The body mass index increased by 1.23 kg/m2 (95%CI, 0.89-1.57 kg/m2). As for adverse events, 0.824 (95%CI, 0.769-0.879) occurred during ELE/TEZ/IVA period, while the incidence of severe adverse events was 0.066 (95%CI, 0.028-0.104). Conclusion: ELE/TEZ/IVA is a highly effective strategy and relatively safe for CF patients and needs to be sustained to achieve better efficacy. Systematic Review Registration: Identifier: CRD42023441840.

Effect of 18 months elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor on body mass index and glycemic control in adults with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Malnutrition and cystic fibrosis related diabetes (CFRD) are common comorbidities in cystic fibrosis (CF). Cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) modulators have shown beneficial effects on respiratory status. This study aims to determine the effect of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor (ETI) on body mass index (BMI) and glycemic control.

METHODS

A retrospective, observational study of a cohort of 17 adult CF patients was conducted at the CF reference center of Ghent University Hospital. BMI evolution was analyzed 18 months before and 0, 3, 6, 12 and 18 months after the start of ETI. The evolution of insulin dependence and the 2 h oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) results were described until 36 months after start of ETI, in a small subgroup of ten patients with CFRD or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT).

RESULTS

A significant increase in mean BMI of 1.2 kg/m2 (±1.3 SD) was observed. Most weight gain was observed in the first 3 months after starting treatment. This effect was sustained during the observed period of 18 months. Six patients had insulin dependent CFRD, of which three were able to stop insulin after starting ETI. Two patients with CFRD treated with dietary measures showed an initial normalization of the 2 h OGTT, but deterioration at 36 month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

After initiation of ETI an increase in BMI was observed in adults with CF. ETI can have a beneficial impact on glucose metabolism in patients with CFRD, leading to a possible need for reduction or cessation of insulin therapy.

Alterations in lipids after initiation of highly effective modulators in people with cystic fibrosis

Risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) may be changing in people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) with widespread use of highly effective modulator therapy (HEMT). We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who had lipids checked before and after initiation of ivacaftor or elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor. We hypothesized that HEMT negatively impacts lipids (total cholesterol [TC], low-density lipoprotein [LDL], high-density lipoprotein [HDL], TC/HDL ratio). 41 adult patients were included. Paired t-tests showed statistically significant increases in TC (mean difference 16.3 mg/dL, p = 0.007, n = 40), LDL (mean difference 17.1 mg/dL, p < 0.001, n = 35), and TC/HDL ratio (mean difference 0.40, p = 0.014, n = 39) after HEMT initiation. HDL was unchanged (mean difference -1.5 mg/dL, p = 0.69, n = 39). Linear mixed models showed CF liver disease was associated with significantly blunted changes in TC and LDL. Family history of CVD risk factors was associated with significantly accentuated increases in TC and LDL. These data suggest a role for more lipid screening in pwCF.

Evolving nutritional needs, obesity, and overweight status in cystic fibrosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The nutritional landscape in cystic fibrosis has shifted dramatically in the era of CFTR modulator therapy. In this review, we will critically examine the literature on overweight and obesity in CF, current nutritional care unknowns and opportunities for further investigation or adaptation in clinical care.

RECENT FINDINGS

Results of clinical trial and real-world data reflect marked improvement in nutritional status and quality of life. Clinical outcomes including CF related diabetes and CF related liver disease appear positively impacted. Secondary impacts on cardiometabolic disease have been noted, especially in association with excessive weight gain.

SUMMARY

The prior approaches to optimizing nutrition in cystic fibrosis with caloric excess can likely be safely retired for many. As modulator access expands across the lifespan, a longitudinal focus on health maintenance should be considered.

A Gastroenterologist's Guide to Care Transitions in Cystic Fibrosis from Pediatrics to Adult Care

Cystic Fibrosis is a chronic disease affecting multiple systems, including the GI tract. Clinical manifestation in patients can start as early as infancy and vary across different age groups. With the advent of new, highly effective modulators, the life expectancy of PwCF has improved significantly. Various GI aspects of CF care, such as nutrition, are linked to an overall improvement in morbidity, lung function and the quality of life of PwCF. The variable clinical presentations and management of GI diseases in pediatrics and adults with CF should be recognized. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure efficient transfer of information between pediatric and adult providers for proper continuity of management and coordination of care at the time of transition. The transition of care is a challenging process for both patients and providers and currently there are no specific tools for GI providers to help ensure a smooth transition. In this review, we aim to highlight the crucial features of GI care at the time of transition and provide a checklist that can assist in ensuring an effective transition and ease the challenges associated with it.

Nutritional management of people living with cystic fibrosis throughout life and disease continuum: Changing times, new challenges

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease caused by mutations in the gene encoding for the ion channel cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). The management of CF disease has evolved in recent decades from treating downstream disease manifestations affecting the airways, the lungs and the gastrointestinal system to addressing the CFTR gene defect. The advent of CFTR modulators, which correct the functionality of the defective CFTR, contributes to reshaping the landscape of CF demographics, prognosis and therapies, including nutritional management. A spectrum of clinical manifestations is emerging within the same patient population where undernutrition and nutritional deficiencies coexist with excessive weight gain and metabolic derangements. Such contrasting presentations challenge current practices, require adjustments to traditional approaches, and involve more individualised interventions. This narrative review examines the current state of knowledge on the nutritional management of people living with cystic fibrosis from early life to adulthood in the era of CFTR modulation.

Nutritional considerations for a new era: A CF foundation position paper

OBJECTIVE

To provide interim advice and considerations to the CF Community around CF nutrition in the current era.

METHODS

The Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Foundation organized a multidisciplinary committee to develop a Nutrition Position Paper based on the rapidly changing nutrition landscape in CF, due in part to widespread use of cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator highly effective modulator therapy (HEMT). Four workgroups were formed: Weight Management, Eating Behavior/Food Insecurity, Salt Homeostasis and Pancreatic Enzyme use. Each workgroup conducted their own focused review of the literature.

RESULTS

The committee summarized current understanding of issues pertaining to the four workgroup topics and provided 6 key take-aways around CF Nutrition in the new era.

CONCLUSION

People with CF (pwCF) are living longer, particularly with the advent of HEMT. The traditional high fat, high calorie CF diet may have negative nutritional and cardiovascular consequences as pwCF age. Individuals with CF may have poor diet quality, food insecurity, distorted body image, and an higher incidence of eating disorders. An increase in overweight and obesity may lead to new considerations for nutritional management, given potential effects of overnutrition on pulmonary and cardiometabolic parameters.

Changes of androgen and corticosterone metabolites excretion and conversion in cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-threatening inherited disease related to a mutation in the CFTR gene, that leads to serious health complications such as chronic pulmonary infections, pancreatic insufficiency, dysfunction of the sweat glands and reproductive system. For the first time, we have described the profile of corticosterone and androgen metabolites in urine, as well as the activity of enzymes involved in steroid genesis and metabolism in people with CF, using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. A significant reduction in the excretion of most of the measured metabolites in CF was found. These differences were observed in the group of progestagen metabolites, as well as among metabolites of corticosterone and androgens. We revealed higher activities of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and 17,20-lyase in the Δ4 pathway compared with controls, what can promote the androgen synthesis through the backdoor androgen pathway. We have also found the increased conversion activity of 11-oxyganated steroids by 5a-reductase in backdoor pathway. Levels of the most potent and vital androgens (testosterone and dihydrotestosterone) are comparable in both groups. However, the excretion of dehydroepiandrosterone was lower in CF. Decreased cholesterol lipoprotein levels may contribute to limited intracellular cholesterol supply and reduced adrenal steroidogenesis in CF individuals. Changes in the activity of some steroidogenesis enzymes may suggest the presence of some peripheral adaptive mechanisms in CF to maintain androgen balance in the body despite the limited sufficiency of secretion by the adrenal cortex.

Heterogeneity of weight gain after initiation of Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor in people with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

The introduction of the novel therapy, Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor (ETI) has been effective in improving weight gain in both clinical trials and real-world studies. However, the magnitude of this effect appears to be heterogeneous across patient subgroups. This study aims to identify potential determinants of heterogeneity in weight gain following 6-month ETI therapy.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter, prospective cohort study enrolling 92 adults with CF at two major CF centers in Italy with follow-up visit at one month and six months from ETI initiation. The treatment's effect on weight changes was evaluated using mixed effect regression models that included subject-specific random intercepts and fixed effects for potential predictors of treatment response, time and a predictor-by-time interaction term.

RESULTS

The mean weight gain at six months from the start of treatment was 4.6 kg (95% CI: 2.3-6.9) for the 10 patients with underweight, 3.2 kg (95% CI: 2.3-4.0) for the 72 patients with normal weight, and 0.7 kg (95% CI: -1.6-3.0) for the 10 patients with overweight. After six months of ETI treatment, 8 (80%) of the patients with underweight transitioned to the normal weight category, while 11 (15.3%) of the normal-weight patients became overweight. The major determinants of heterogeneity in weight gain were the baseline BMI and the presence of at least one CFTR residual function mutation, explaining 13% and 8% of the variability, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that ETI is highly effective in improving weight gain in underweight subjects with CF. However, our data also suggests the need for close monitoring of excess weight gain to prevent potential cardiometabolic complications.

Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes Workshop: Research Priorities Spanning Disease Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Outcomes

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a recessive disorder arising from mutations in the gene encoding the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. CFTR is expressed in numerous tissues, with high expression in the airways, small and large intestine, pancreatic and hepatobiliary ducts, and male reproductive tract. CFTR loss in these tissues disrupts regulation of salt, bicarbonate, and water balance across their epithelia, resulting in a systemic disorder with progressive organ dysfunction and damage. Pancreatic exocrine damage ultimately manifests as pancreatic exocrine insufficiency that begins as early as infancy. Pancreatic remodeling accompanies this early damage, during which abnormal glucose tolerance can be observed in toddlers. With increasing age, however, insulin secretion defects progress such that CF-related diabetes (CFRD) occurs in 20% of teens and up to half of adults with CF. The relevance of CFRD is highlighted by its association with increased morbidity, mortality, and patient burden. While clinical research on CFRD has greatly assisted in the care of individuals with CFRD, key knowledge gaps on CFRD pathogenesis remain. Furthermore, the wide use of CFTR modulators to restore CFTR activity is changing the CFRD clinical landscape and the field's understanding of CFRD pathogenesis. For these reasons, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation sponsored a CFRD Scientific Workshop, 23-25 June 2021, to define knowledge gaps and needed research areas. This article describes the findings from this workshop and plots a path for CFRD research that is needed over the next decade.

Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes Workshop: Research Priorities Spanning Disease Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Outcomes

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a recessive disorder arising from mutations in the gene encoding the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. CFTR is expressed in numerous tissues, with high expression in the airways, small and large intestine, pancreatic and hepatobiliary ducts, and male reproductive tract. CFTR loss in these tissues disrupts regulation of salt, bicarbonate, and water balance across their epithelia, resulting in a systemic disorder with progressive organ dysfunction and damage. Pancreatic exocrine damage ultimately manifests as pancreatic exocrine insufficiency that begins as early as infancy. Pancreatic remodeling accompanies this early damage, during which abnormal glucose tolerance can be observed in toddlers. With increasing age, however, insulin secretion defects progress such that CF-related diabetes (CFRD) occurs in 20% of teens and up to half of adults with CF. The relevance of CFRD is highlighted by its association with increased morbidity, mortality, and patient burden. While clinical research on CFRD has greatly assisted in the care of individuals with CFRD, key knowledge gaps on CFRD pathogenesis remain. Furthermore, the wide use of CFTR modulators to restore CFTR activity is changing the CFRD clinical landscape and the field's understanding of CFRD pathogenesis. For these reasons, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation sponsored a CFRD Scientific Workshop, 23-25 June 2021, to define knowledge gaps and needed research areas. This article describes the findings from this workshop and plots a path for CFRD research that is needed over the next decade.

Bariatric surgery in a patient with cystic fibrosis and diabetes: A case report

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is incurable and chronic, causing severe multisystemic damage and long-term complications. The most prominent extrapulmonary long-term complication is CF-related diabetes, which is the most reported form of diabetes in individuals with cystic fibrosis. Here we present the first case of an individual with cystic fibrosis who developed type 2 diabetes due to obesity rather than CF-related diabetes. The type 2 diabetes went into remission due to extreme weight loss after gastric bypass surgery. To our knowledge, this case is also the first report describing the effect of bariatric surgery in a patient with CF. This case demonstrates that patients with CF may present with type 2 diabetes instead of CF-related diabetes. Differential diagnosis of these two types of diabetes is essential for optimal treatment and quality of life.

Serum Appetite-Regulating Hormone Levels in Cystic Fibrosis Patients: Influence of the Disease Severity and the Type of Bacterial Infection-A Pilot Study

Cystic fibrosis (CF) belongs to the most common inherited diseases. The severity of the disease and chronic bacterial infections are associated with a lower body index, undernutrition, higher number of pulmonary exacerbations, more hospital admissions, and increased mortality. The aim of our study was to determine the impact of the severity of the disease and the type of bacterial infection in 38 CF patients on the serum level of appetite-regulating hormones including leptin, ghrelin, neuropeptide Y, agouti-signaling protein, proopiomelanocortin, kisspeptin, putative protein Y, and α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. The patients were divided according to the severity of the disease according to spirometry and the type of chronic bacterial infection. We found that leptin level was significantly higher in patients with severe CF than in patients with mild disease (20.02 ± 8.09 vs. 12.38 ± 6.03 ng/mL, p = 0.028). Furthermore, leptin level was elevated in patients with chronic infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa compared to uninfected participants (15.74 ± 7.02 vs. 9.28 ± 1.72 ng/mL, p = 0.043). The severity of the disease and the type of bacterial infection did not affect the levels of other appetite-regulating hormones. Moreover, we found a positive correlation between pro-inflammatory interleukin-6 and leptin level (p = 0.0426, R = 0.333). Taken together, our results indicate that both the severity of the disease and the type of bacterial infection are associated with elevated leptin levels in CF patients. Future CF treatment strategies should consider possible disturbances in the hormones that regulate appetite and the factors that influence their levels.

CFTR high expresser cells in cystic fibrosis and intestinal diseases

Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR), the Cl^-/HCO₃ ^- channel implicated in Cystic Fibrosis, is critical to the pathophysiology of many gastrointestinal diseases. Defects in CFTR lead to intestinal dysfunction, malabsorption, obstruction, infection, inflammation, and cancer that increases morbidity and reduces quality of life. This review will focus on CFTR in the intestine and the implications of the subpopulation of CFTR High Expresser Cells (CHEs) in Cystic Fibrosis (CF), intestinal physiology and pathophysiology of intestinal diseases.

Body composition and functional correlates of CF youth experiencing pulmonary exacerbation and recovery

BACKGROUND

Youth with cystic fibrosis (CF) and pulmonary exacerbation (PEx) often experience weight loss, then rapid weight gain. Little is known about body composition and its relationship to functional outcomes during this critical period.

METHODS

Twenty CF youth experiencing PEx were assessed on the day following admission and 7-17 days later at discharge for body mass index (BMI), fat mass index (FMI), lean mass index (LMI), skeletal muscle mass index (SMMI), and functional measures: percent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) (ppFEV1), maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIPs and MEPs), and handgrip strength (HGS). Changes from admission to discharge and correlations among body composition indices and functional measures at both times are reported.

RESULTS

Upon admission, participant BMI percentile and ppFEV1 varied from 2 to 97 and 29 to 113, respectively. Thirteen had an LMI below the 25th percentile and nine had a percent body fat above the 75th percentile. BMI and FMI increased significantly (p = 0.03, 0.003) during hospitalization. LMI and SMMI did not change. FEV1 and MIPS increased (p = 0.0003, 0.007), independent of weight gain, during treatment. HGS did not improve.

CONCLUSIONS

Many youth with CF, independent of BMI, frequently carried a small muscle mass and disproportionate fat at the time of PEx. During hospital treatment, weight gain largely represented fat deposition; muscle mass and strength did not improve. A need for trials of interventions designed to augment muscle mass and function, and limit fat mass accretion, at the time of PEx is suggested by these observations.

Can Bioactive Food Substances Contribute to Cystic Fibrosis-Related Cardiovascular Disease Prevention?

Advances in cystic fibrosis (CF) care have significantly improved the quality of life and life expectancy of patients. Nutritional therapy based on a high-calorie, high-fat diet, antibiotics, as well as new therapies focused on CFTR modulators change the natural course of the disease. They do so by improving pulmonary function and growing BMI. However, the increased weight of such patients can lead to unwanted long-term cardiovascular effects. People with CF (pwCF) experience several cardiovascular risk factors. Such factors include a high-fat diet and increased dietary intake, altered lipid metabolism, a decrease in the level of fat-soluble antioxidants, heightened systemic inflammation, therapeutic interventions, and diabetes mellitus. PwCF must pay special attention to food and eating habits in order to maintain a nutritional status that is as close as possible to the proper physiological one. They also have to benefit from appropriate nutritional counseling, which is essential in the evolution and prognosis of the disease. Growing evidence collected in the last years shows that many bioactive food components, such as phytochemicals, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidants have favorable effects in the management of CF. An important positive effect is cardiovascular prevention. The possibility of preventing/reducing cardiovascular risk in CF patients enhances both quality of life and life expectancy in the long run.

Physical activity and liver disease affect the fat-free mass in adolescents with cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is predominantly a lung disease but is also characterised by impaired skeletal muscularity and a reduction in fat-free mass. We aimed to test the hypothesis that clinical and anthropometric parameters would determine fat-free mass impairment in adolescents with CF. We measured the fat-free mass index (FFMI) using bioelectrical impedance, the lung function using spirometry, the number of shuttles as a measure of exercise tolerance and the reported physical activity in children and young people with CF in a tertiary centre at King's College Hospital, London, UK. CF-related liver disease was diagnosed by abnormal liver enzymes and/or ultrasonography. We studied 28 children and young people (11 male) with a median (interquartile range (IQR)) age of 15 (13-17) years. They had a median (IQR) FFMI of 13.5 (11.6-15.1) kg/m². The FFMI significantly correlated with age (rho = 0.568, p = 0.002), number of shuttles (rho = 0.691, p < 0.001) and reported hours of activity per day (rho = 0.426, p = 0.024). The median (IQR) FFMI was significantly higher in male [15.1 (13.1-18.6) kg/m²] compared to female participants [12.7 (11.6-14.1) kg/m², p = 0.008]. The median (IQR) FFMI was significantly lower in the 10 (36%) participants with liver disease [11.9 (11.5-13.4) kg/m²] compared to the FFMI in the remaining 18 participants without liver disease [14.4 (12.5-15.9) kg/m², p = 0.027].

CONCLUSION

Fat-free mass increases with increasing age and growth in adolescents with CF. Physical activity exerts a beneficial effect on fat-free mass, and CF-related liver disease negatively affects fat-free mass in adolescents with CF.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Health behaviours in adolescence influence lifelong health in cystic fibrosis (CF). • A normal body mass index in CF might fail to reveal a low fat-free mass (FFM), and quality of life in CF is strongly associated with a reduced FFM.

WHAT IS NEW

• FFM increases with increasing age and growth in adolescents with CF. • Physical activity exerts a beneficial effect, and liver disease negatively affects FFM in adolescents with CF.

Diet and the gut-lung axis in cystic fibrosis - direct & indirect links

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystem, autosomal, recessive disease primarily affecting the lungs, pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, and liver. Whilst there is increasing evidence of a microbial 'gut-lung axis' in chronic respiratory conditions, there has been limited analysis of such a concept in CF. We performed a comprehensive dietary and microbiota analysis to explore the interactions between diet, gastrointestinal microbiota, respiratory microbiota, and clinical outcomes in children with CF. Our results demonstrate significant alterations in intestinal inflammation and respiratory and gastrointestinal microbiota when compared to age and gender matched children without CF. We identified correlations between the gastrointestinal and respiratory microbiota, lung function, CF pulmonary exacerbations and anthropometrics, supporting the concept of an altered gut-lung axis in children with CF. We also identified significant differences in dietary quality with CF children consuming greater relative proportions of total, saturated and trans fats, and less relative proportions of carbohydrates, wholegrains, fiber, insoluble fiber, starch, and resistant starch. Our findings position the CF diet as a potential modulator in gastrointestinal inflammation and the proposed gut-lung axial relationship in CF. The dietary intake of wholegrains, fiber and resistant starch may be protective against intestinal inflammation and should be explored as potential therapeutic adjuvants for children with CF.

Alteration in glucocorticoids secretion and metabolism in patients affected by cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited syndrome associated with a mutation in a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene, composed of exocrine gland dysfunction involving multiple systems that may result in chronic respiratory infections, pancreatic enzyme deficiency, and developmental disorders. Our study describes for the first time the urinary profile of glucocorticoid metabolites and the activity of the enzymes involved in the development and metabolism of cortisol in patients with CF, using a gas chromatography/mass spectrometry method. Data were obtained from 25 affected patients and 70 sex- and age- matched healthy volunteers. We have shown a general decrease in the activity of enzymes involved in the peripheral metabolism of cortisol, such as 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, 5α- and 5β-reductases. In contrast, the activity of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, the enzyme that converts cortisone to cortisol, increased. Furthermore, our study found a significant decrease in glucocorticoid excretion in patients with CF. This may suggest adrenal insufficiency or dysregulation of the HPA axis and the development of peripheral mechanisms to counteract cortisol degradation in the case of reduced synthesis of glucocorticoids by the adrenal glands. Furthermore, the activity of 5α-reductase seems to be enhanced only through the backdoor pathway, especially when we taking into consideration 11β-hydroxyandrosterone/11β-hydroxyetiocholanolone ratio which has been shown to be the best differential marker for enzyme activity. CF impairs nutritional effects and energetic balance in patients; thus, our findings suggest the existence of adaptive mechanisms due to limited secretion of adrenal steroids and subsequent diminished amounts of their metabolites in urine. On the other hand, local control of cortisol availability is maintained by enhanced 11βHSD1 activity and its recovery from cortisone in organs and tissues which need this. Steroid hormone dysregulation might be another important factor in the course of CF that should be taken into account when planning an effective and comprehensive therapy.

Updates in Nutrition Management of Cystic Fibrosis in the Highly Effective Modulator Era

Attainment and maintenance of good nutrition has been an important aspect of management in cystic fibrosis (CF) for decades. In the era of highly effective modulator therapy for CF, the quality of the nutrients we recommend is increasingly important. Our therapy must support our patients' health for many years beyond what we previously thought. Preventing cardiovascular disease, reducing hyperlipidemia, and optimizing lean body mass for active, longer lives now join the long-standing goal of promoting lung function through nutrition. This chapter summarizes recent developments in nutrition in people with CF, with an eye to the evolution of our practice.

Endocrine Complications of Cystic Fibrosis

Endocrine comorbidities have become increasingly important medical considerations as improving cystic fibrosis (CF) care increases life expectancy. Although the underlying pathophysiology of CF-related diabetes remains elusive, the use of novel technologies and therapeutics seeks to improve both CF-related outcomes and quality of life. Improvements in the overall health of those with CF have tempered concerns about pubertal delay and short stature; however, other comorbidities such as hypogonadism and bone disease are increasingly recognized. Following the introduction of highly effective modulator therapies there are many lessons to be learned about their long-term impact on endocrine comorbidities.

The relationship between weight and pulmonary outcomes in overweight and obese people with cystic fibrosis: A retrospective observational study

Background

A major focus in cystic fibrosis (CF) care aims to increase weight gain. Rates of overweight and obese people with CF have gradually increased over the past decade. Obesity could be a risk for restriction of lung volumes and airway obstruction as well as increase rates of pulmonary exacerbations in people with CF.

Aim

To assess the relationship between weight categories and pulmonary outcomes in children and adults with CF.

Methods

Patients 6 years of age and older were categorized into weight categories based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) definitions. A retrospective chart review was conducted to obtain lung function testing and other outcomes.

Results

One hundred five patients with a median age of 20.6 years were included in this analysis. 8.4%, 64%, 18%, and 10% of patients were underweight, normal/healthy weight, overweight, and obese, respectively. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) (% predicted) did not differ between patients with weights in the normal range versus patients in the overweight/obese categories. Linear regression analysis showed a direct correlation between body mass index (BMI) and FEV1 that continued as BMI entered overweight and obese categories in both pediatric and adult patients. Overweight/obese patients did not have increased rates of pulmonary exacerbations compared to those in the normal/healthy weight category.

Conclusion

As CF therapies continue to improve, an increasing number of people with CF are exceeding the CDC's normal-weight range. Gaining weight past the normal range does not appear to negatively impact pulmonary health of people with CF. If this trend of increased weight gain continues, it remains to be seen if it will eventually negatively affect lung health.

Coronary artery disease in patients with cystic fibrosis - A case series and review of the literature

Progressive obstructive pulmonary disease is the primary life-shortening complication in people with Cystic Fibrosis (CF); improvement in life expectancy has led to increased prevalence of non-pulmonary complications. Patients with CF are considered to be at low risk for coronary artery disease (CAD). We report here a case series of six patients with CF with and without known cystic fibrosis related diabetes (CFRD) who had acute myocardial infarction (AMI) requiring coronary stent placement. This was a heterogeneous group of patients, without a clear pattern of consistent risk factors. Interestingly, most patients in this cohort had low LDL. In this review, we discuss risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) that may apply to the CF population. While CAD is rare in people with CF, it does occur. We postulate that the risk will grow with increased longevity and the increased prevalence of co-morbidities such as obesity and dyslipidemia.

Body mass index and additional risk factors for cancer in adults with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Adults with cystic fibrosis (CF) have an increased risk of a variety of cancers, notably gastrointestinal cancers. In CF higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with improved long-term outcomes, yet in the general population high BMI is associated with increased cancer risk. We aimed to delineate associations between BMI and other factors with cancer risk in adults with CF.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study using CF Foundation Patient Registry data from 1992 to 2015. Data were collected on age, sex, CFTR mutation class, pancreatic insufficiency, and annualized data on BMI and FEV1. The primary analysis was the association between BMI and cancer, with secondary analyses focused on BMI trajectory. Multivariable logistic regression was performed, with analyses stratified by history of transplant.

RESULTS

Of 26,199 adults with CF, 446 (1.7%) had cancer diagnosed by histology at a mean age of 40.0 years (SD 12.2), with a higher proportion of transplanted patients developing cancer (137 (3.8%) v 309(1.4%), p < 0.001). Among non-transplanted patients, there was no association between BMI and cancer (p for trend = 0.43). Pancreatic insufficiency (p < 0.01) and higher FEV1 (p < 0.01) were associated with increased cancer risk. In transplanted patients, higher BMI was associated with reduced risk of cancer (p for trend = 0.04). Older age was associated with increased risk in both groups (p < 0.001). BMI trajectories were not associated with cancer risk in either group.

CONCLUSION

Higher BMI is associated with a reduced risk of cancer in transplanted adults with CF. Pancreatic insufficiency is a risk factor for cancer in non-transplanted CF patients.

Obesity in Cystic fibrosis: prevalence, trends and associated factors data from the US cystic fibrosis foundation patient registry

Strong emphasis has been placed historically on increasing weight and improving nutritional status in cystic fibrosis patients. Due to correlation between nutritional indices (e.g. BMI) and lung function, CF Nutrition Guidelines have recommended BMI percentile goals at the 50th percentile or higher. Trends in increasing BMI across CF programs suggest significantly increasing proportions of overweight and obese status in recent years. We identify that between 2000 and 2019 there has been a relative decrease in underweight status by ∼40%, simultaneously with a > 300% increase in overweight status, and >400% increase in obesity. Patient specific factors associated with higher prevalence of obesity included age ≥46, living in a zip code where the median income was < $20,000, having at least one allele with a class IV or V mutation, a ppFEV1 >90 prescribed ivacaftor, and not prescribed pancreatic enzymes. Program specific factors were not identified.

Nutritional status and lung function in children with pancreatic-sufficient cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

There is a strong association between nutrition and long-term FEV1 in cystic fibrosis (CF), but studies have been driven by data from subjects with pancreatic insufficiency (PI-CF). We thus evaluated the association between body mass index (BMI) and FEV1 percent-predicted (FEV1pp) in children with pancreatic sufficiency (PS-CF) and contrasted it with the association in PI-CF.

METHODS

We utilized data from the CF Foundation Patient Registry. The cohort included children born 1995-2010, diagnosed <2 years of age, and who had annualized data on BMI percentile and FEV1pp at ages 6-16 years. Pancreatic status was defined based on pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy. The association between BMI and FEV1 was evaluated using linear and mixed-effects longitudinal regression.

RESULTS

There were 424 children with PS-CF and 7,849 with PI-CF. The association between BMI and FEV1 differed significantly by pancreatic status: each 10-pct higher BMI was associated with 2% [95%CI = 1.9-2.1] higher FEV1pp in PI-CF, compared to just 0.9% [0.5-1.3] in PS-CF (PINTERACTION < 0.001). Within the at-risk nutritional category (BMI <25pct), each 10-pct higher BMI was associated with 5% higher FEV1pp in PI-CF, but no significant increase in PS-CF. Moreover, in PS-CF, overweight/obesity (BMI ≥85pct) was associated with decreasing FEV1pp. In addition, FEV1pp decline through age 20 years in youth with PS-CF was modest (-0.6% per year) and independent of BMI (BMI*age PINTERACTION = 0.37).

CONCLUSIONS

In children with PS-CF, BMI remains an important determinant of lung function. However, it may be less critical to attain a BMI >50th percentile; and BMI ≥85th percentile may be detrimental.

Update on the management of vitamins and minerals in cystic fibrosis

Advancements in respiratory and nutrition management have significantly improved the survival of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). With the availability of several nutrition interventions such as oral/enteral nutrition supplements, enteric‐coated pancreatic enzymes, and water‐miscible CF‐specific vitamin supplements, frank vitamin deficiencies—with the exception of vitamin D—are rarely encountered in current clinical practice. Whereas they were previously considered as micronutrients, our current understanding of fat‐soluble vitamins and minerals as antioxidants, immunomodulators, and disease biomarkers has been evolving. The impact of highly effective modulators on the micronutrient status of patients with CF remains elusive. This narrative review focuses on the updates on the management of fat‐soluble vitamins and other micronutrients in CF in the current era and identifies the gaps in our knowledge.

New Concepts in the Pathogenesis of Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes

CONTEXT

Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD) is the most common extrapulmonary complication of cystic fibrosis (CF). Approximately 40% of people with CF who are older than 20 years have CFRD. Presence of CFRD is associated with poor health outcomes in people with CF.

OBJECTIVE

This review summarizes current knowledge on pathophysiology of CFRD.

METHODS

A PubMed review of the literature was conducted, with search terms that included CFRD, cystic fibrosis, cystic fibrosis related diabetes, and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Additional sources were identified through manual searches of reference lists. Pathophysiology of CFRD: The pathophysiology underlying development of glucose tolerance abnormalities in CF is complex and not fully understood. β-cell loss and functional impairment of the remaining β-cell function results in progressive insulin insufficiency. Factors that may contribute to development of CFRD include local islet and systemic inflammation, alterations in the incretion hormone axis, varying degrees of insulin resistance and genetic factors related to type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of CFRD is expected to further increase with improving life expectancy of people with CF. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying the development of CFRD and the impact of diabetes on clinical outcomes in CF.

The Changing Landscape of Nutrition in Cystic Fibrosis: The Emergence of Overweight and Obesity

Cystic fibrosis has historically been characterized by malnutrition, and nutrition strategies have placed emphasis on weight gain due to its association with better pulmonary outcomes. As treatment for this disease has significantly improved, longevity has increased and overweight and obesity have emerged issues in this population. The effect of excess weight and adiposity on CF clinical outcomes is unknown but may produce similar health consequences and obesity-related diseases as those observed in the general population. This review examines the prevalence of overweight and obesity in CF, the medical and psychological impact, as well as the existing evidence for treatment in the general population and how this may be applied to people with CF. Clinicians should partner with individuals with CF and their families to provide a personalized, interdisciplinary approach that includes dietary modification, physical activity, and behavioral intervention. Additional research is needed to identify the optimal strategies for preventing and addressing overweight and obesity in CF.

Association of Body Mass Index With Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Cystic Fibrosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

IMPORTANCE

The prevalence of overweight (body mass index [BMI] = 25-29.9 [calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared]) and obesity (BMI ≥30) is increasing among patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). However, it is unclear whether there is a benefit associated with increasing weight compared with the reference range (ie, normal) in CF.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association of altered BMI or body composition and clinical outcomes in patients with CF.

DATA SOURCES

For this systematic review and meta-analysis, the literature search was conducted November 2, 2020, of 3 databases: MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials.

STUDY SELECTION

Patients older than 2 years diagnosed with CF with altered body composition or BMI were compared with patients having the measured parameters within the reference ranges. Records were selected by title, abstract, and full text; disagreements were resolved by consensus. Cohort studies and conference abstracts were eligible; articles with no original data and case reports were excluded.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Two authors independently extracted data, which were validated by a third author. Studies containing insufficient poolable numerical data were included in the qualitative analysis. A random-effects model was applied in all analyses.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Pulmonary function, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (PI), and CF-related diabetes (CFRD) were investigated as primary outcomes. Odds ratios (ORs) or weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% CIs were calculated. The hypothesis was formulated before data collection.

RESULTS

Of 10 524 records identified, 61 met the selection criteria and were included in the qualitative analysis. Of these, 17 studies were included in the quantitative synthesis. Altogether, 9114 patients were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Overweight (WMD, -8.36%; 95% CI, -12.74% to -3.97%) and obesity (WMD, -12.06%; 95% CI, -23.91% to -0.22%) were associated with higher forced expiratory volume in the first second of expiration compared with normal weight. The odds for CFRD and PI were more likely in patients of normal weight (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.10 to 2.00) than in those who were overweight (OR, 4.40; 95% CI, 3.00 to 6.45). High heterogeneity was shown in the analysis of pulmonary function (I2 = 46.7%-85.9%).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that the currently recommended target BMI in patients with CF should be reconsidered. Studies with long-term follow-up are necessary to assess the possible adverse effects of higher BMI or higher fat mass in patients with CF.

Nutrition in Cystic Fibrosis—Some Notes on the Fat Recommendations

Nutrition is important in cystic fibrosis (CF) because the disease is associated with a higher energy consumption, special nutritional deficiencies, and malabsorption mainly related to pancreatic insufficiency. The clinical course with deterioration of lung function has been shown to relate to nutrition. Despite general recommendation of high energy intake, the clinical deterioration is difficult to restrain suggesting that special needs have not been identified and specified. It is well-known that the CF phenotype is associated with lipid abnormalities, especially in the essential or conditionally essential fatty acids. This review will concentrate on the qualitative aspects of fat metabolism, which has mainly been neglected in dietary fat recommendations focusing on fat quantity. For more than 60 years it has been known and confirmed that the patients have a deficiency of linoleic acid, an n-6 essential fatty acid of importance for membrane structure and function. The ratio between arachidonic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, conditionally essential fatty acids of the n-6 and n-3 series, respectively, is often increased. The recently discovered relations between the CFTR modulators and lipid metabolism raise new interests in this field and together with new technology provide possibilities to specify further specify personalized therapy.

Utilization of the Healthy Eating Index in Cystic Fibrosis

(1) Background: Malnutrition has been a hallmark of cystic fibrosis (CF) for some time, and improved nutritional status is associated with improved outcomes. While individuals with CF historically required higher caloric intake than the general population, new CF therapies and improved health in this population suggest decreased metabolic demand and prevalence of overweight and obesity have increased. This study aimed to (a) examine diet quality in a population of young adults with CF using the Healthy Eating Index, a measure of diet quality in accordance with the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans and (b) evaluate and describe how subcomponents of the HEI might apply to individuals with CF (2) Methods: 3-day dietary recalls from healthy adolescents and young adults with CF were obtained and scored based on the Healthy Eating Index (3) Results: Dietary recalls from 26 (14M/12F) adolescents and young adults with CF (ages 16–23), were obtained. Individuals with CF had significantly lower HEI scores than the general population and lower individual component scores for total vegetables, greens and beans, total fruits, whole fruits, total protein, seafood and plant protein and sodium (p values < 0.01 for all). (4) Conclusion: Dietary quality was poor in these healthy adolescents and young adults with CF. Given the increased prevalence of overweight and obesity in CF, updated dietary guidance is urgently needed for this population. The Healthy Eating Index may be a valuable tool for evaluating dietary quality in CF.

Overweight and cystic fibrosis: An unexpected challenge

Achieving a healthy weight balance has been a central focus of care for people who have cystic fibrosis (CF). Over the years, the emphasis has primarily been on promoting weight gain to optimize pulmonary outcomes. With continued improvements in CF care, including highly effective CF modulators available for many people, the CF community is now experiencing a new challenge: addressing the concern that some people are gaining weight excessively. While at this time, we do not know to what extent overweight and obesity will affect health outcomes for people with CF, it is likely that excessive weight gain may have negative health impacts similar to those seen in the general population. In this paper, we review the history of nutritional guidelines for people with CF, as well as more recent trends toward overweight and obesity for some. A multidisciplinary approach is needed to collaboratively start the oftentimes difficult conversation regarding excessive weight gain, and to identify resources to help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight through diet, exercise, and behavioral modification.

What Do We Know about the Microbiome in Cystic Fibrosis? Is There a Role for Probiotics and Prebiotics?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-shortening genetic disorder that affects the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. In the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, CFTR dysfunction results in low intestinal pH, thick and inspissated mucus, a lack of endogenous pancreatic enzymes, and reduced motility. These mechanisms, combined with antibiotic therapies, drive GI inflammation and significant alteration of the GI microbiota (dysbiosis). Dysbiosis and inflammation are key factors in systemic inflammation and GI complications including malignancy. The following review examines the potential for probiotic and prebiotic therapies to provide clinical benefits through modulation of the microbiome. Evidence from randomised control trials suggest probiotics are likely to improve GI inflammation and reduce the incidence of CF pulmonary exacerbations. However, the highly variable, low-quality data is a barrier to the implementation of probiotics into routine CF care. Epidemiological studies and clinical trials support the potential of dietary fibre and prebiotic supplements to beneficially modulate the microbiome in gastrointestinal conditions. To date, limited evidence is available on their safety and efficacy in CF. Variable responses to probiotics and prebiotics highlight the need for personalised approaches that consider an individual’s underlying microbiota, diet, and existing medications against the backdrop of the complex nutritional needs in CF.

The Relationship between Body Composition, Dietary Intake, Physical Activity, and Pulmonary Status in Adolescents and Adults with Cystic Fibrosis

Measures of body fat and lean mass may better predict important clinical outcomes in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) than body mass index (BMI). Little is known about how diet quality and exercise may impact body composition in these patients. Dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) body composition, 24-h dietary recall, and physical activity were assessed in a cross-sectional analysis of 38 adolescents and adults with CF and 19 age-, race-, and gender-matched healthy volunteers. Compared with the healthy volunteers, participants with CF had a lower appendicular lean mass index (ALMI), despite no observed difference in BMI, and their diets consisted of higher glycemic index foods with a greater proportion of calories from fat and a lower proportion of calories from protein. In participants with CF, pulmonary function positively correlated with measures of lean mass, particularly ALMI, and negatively correlated with multiple measures of body fat after controlling for age, gender, and BMI. Higher physical activity levels were associated with greater ALMI and lower body fat. In conclusion, body composition measures, particularly ALMI, may better predict key clinical outcomes in individuals with CF than BMI. Future longitudinal studies analyzing the effect of dietary intake and exercise on body composition and CF-specific clinical outcomes are needed.

Perception, experience and relationship with food and eating in adults with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystem disorder that primarily affects the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Dietetic therapy is a prominent aspect of CF management, with patients receiving nutritional surveillance and advice throughout their lifetime. The present study aimed to explore the perception, experience and relationship with food and eating in adults with CF.

METHODS

Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with nine adults with CF. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically following a previously described six-phase procedure.

RESULTS

Six themes were identified: 'Sustained influence of eating experience in childhood', 'Eating for health: weight gain to prevent infection', 'Balancing health and body image', 'I'm different,' 'Strategies for managing food intake' and 'Support from family, friends and the CF Team'. Participants talked about the range of strategies they employ, with a focus on eating well and choosing high calorie foods being an important part of their health management strategy. This is driven by the belief that a good weight ensures better health and perceiving eating as a treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This group felt able to cope well and had developed strategies to manage their dietary needs. Food experience was variable throughout their lifetime, with childhood experience having a sustained effect on adult eating behaviour. Weight gain, body image and dietary health implications are considerable concerns for patients. New CF transmembrane modulator treatments (CFTR modulators) are changing the dietary needs of this population. It is important that these issues are explored during dietetic consultations to identify barriers to dietary change.

Acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction in two young women with cystic fibrosis and cystic fibrosis-related diabetes

Ischemic heart disease is rarely reported in people with cystic fibrosis (PwCF) despite multiple potential risk factors. Here we report two cases of ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), both in young women with cystic fibrosis (CF) and cystic fibrosis related diabetes (CFRD). These cases illustrate the importance of considering myocardial injury/infarction in the differential diagnosis of patients with CF and chest pain or shortness of breath, and addressing the growing risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Obesity in cystic fibrosis

The prevalence of obesity in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) is increasing and around one-third of adults with CF are now overweight or obese. The causes of excess weight gain in CF are likely multifactorial, including: adherence to the high-fat legacy diet, reduced exercise tolerance, therapeutic advances, and general population trends. Increased weight has generally been considered favorable in CF, correlating with improved pulmonary function and survival. While the optimal BMI for overall health in CF is unknown, most studies demonstrate minimal improvement in pulmonary function when BMI exceeds 30 kg/m2. Dyslipidemia and cardiovascular disease are important co-morbidities of obesity in the general population, but are uncommon in CF. In people with CF, obesity is associated with hypertension and higher cholesterol levels. With longer life expectancy and rising obesity rates, there may be an increase in cardiovascular disease among people with CF in coming years. Overweight CF patients are more likely to be insulin resistant, taking on features of type 2 diabetes. Treating obesity in people with CF requires carefully weighing the metabolic risks of overnutrition with the impact of low or falling BMI on lung function. This article describes current knowledge on the epidemiology, causes, consequence, and treatment of obesity in people with CF.

Eating disorders and body image in cystic fibrosis

Eating disorders and disturbed body image have been reported in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) and may contribute to poor weight gain, reduced lung function and increased mortality. CF individuals often look and feel different from their peers and bear the additional burden of body-altering side effects of treatment. As a result, the impact of disorders such as binge eating, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa may adversely affect the social, emotional, and physical development of those with CF.

Multiple risk factors may contribute to the development of an eating disorder in CF. Growth failure is affected by the physical impairments of CF, including pancreatic insufficiency, high energy demands, respiratory infections, and delayed and stunted growth and puberty. Psychological factors, such as CF associated depression and anxiety, intense focus on BMI, lack of control in a chronic disease, and preoccupation with morbidity and mortality, likely further contribute. Exercise inefficiency, secondary to poor lung function, low BMI and pulmonary exacerbations, and the potential for medication manipulation are also additional risk factors.

The intense scrutiny around BMI may lead to a poor relationship with food, including disordered eating habits, abnormal mealtime behaviors, and stressful caregiver-patient interactions regarding meals. This further contributes to a discrepancy between ideal CF nutritional standards and the reality of the challenges of appropriate daily energy intake for an individual with CF.

It is imperative that CF providers are equipped to identify potential eating disorders and disturbed body image in their CF patients. Improved screening and monitoring practices should be developed and implemented, with multidisciplinary support from all CF care team members, including dietitians, mental health professionals, and social workers, to best support holistic care and optimize outcomes. Increased attention to these concerns may help reduce CF related morbidity and mortality.

Emerging non-pulmonary complications for adults with cystic fibrosis

Improved treatments of cystic fibrosis (CF) related lung disease have resulted in increased longevity, but also increasing prevalence and severity of extrapulmonary manifestations of CF, treatment related complications, age-related conditions and psychosocial effects of longstanding chronic disease. Likewise, the recognition of mild CF phenotypes has changed the landscape of CF disease. This review outlines our current understanding of the common extrapulmonary complications of CF, as well as the changing landscape and future directions of the extrapulmonary complications experienced by patients with CF.

Year in review 2020: Nutrition and gastrointestinal disease in cystic fibrosis

The multisystemic manifestations of cystic fibrosis (CF) involve all parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) system, including the pancreas, intestine, and liver. As providers who care for people with CF, knowledge of the manifestations, treatment, and research related to nutrition and GI disease are important. This review is the last installment of the CF year in review 2020 series, focusing on nutritional, GI, and hepatobiliary articles from Pediatric Pulmonology and other journals of particular interest to clinicians.