Combined Effects of Physical Activity and Diet on Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of our systematic review was to examine the effects of any physical activity/exercise intervention combined with any diet/nutrition intervention on any biological/biochemical index, quality of life (QoL), and depression in breast, lung, colon and rectum, prostate, stomach, and liver cancer patients and/or cancer survivors. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were undertaken, using PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook. The systematic review protocol can be found in the PROSPERO database; registration number: CRD42023481429. RESULTS: We found moderate-quality evidence that a combined intervention of physical activity/exercise and nutrition/diet reduced body mass index, body weight, fat mass, insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, C-reactive protein, triglycerides, and depression, while it increased high-density lipoprotein, the physical component of QoL, and general functional assessment of cancer therapy. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that a combined intervention of physical activity/exercise and diet/nutrition may decrease body weight, fat mass, insulin levels, and inflammation, and improve lipidemic profile, the physical component of QoL, and depression in cancer patients and survivors. These outcomes indicate a lower risk for carcinogenesis; however, their applicability depends on the heterogeneity of the population and interventions, as well as the potential medical treatment of cancer patients and survivors.

Biologics targeting IL-17 sharply reduce circulating T follicular helper and T peripheral helper cell sub-populations in psoriasis.

Introduction: Circulating T follicular helper (cTfh) cells and circulating T peripheral helper (cTph) cells (which share common characteristics with the cTfh population) are implicated in the pathogenesis of immune-mediated and autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis (Ps). Their close interplay with the interleukin 17 (IL-17) axis and the ex vivo effect of IL-17-targeting biologic agents used to treat Ps on them are elusive. This study aimed to investigate the effect of biologics targeting IL-17 on cTfh and cTph cell subpopulations isolated from the blood of patients with Ps. Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from patients with Ps at treatment initiation and three months later. Samples were also collected from controls. Cells were stained using monoclonal antibodies. Flow cytometry assessed the fraction of cTfh (CD3+CD4+CXCR5+) and cTph (CD3+CD4+CXCR5-PD-1hi) cells.. Results: Flow cytometric analysis showed increased fractions of activated cTfh subsets including ICOS+ and ICOS+PD-1+ expressing cells, in patients compared to controls. Biologic blocking of IL-17A diminished the cTfh population. Furthermore, ICOS+ and ICOS+PD-1+ sub-populations were also inhibited. Finally, the cTph cell fraction significantly decreased after three months of successful treatment with biologics. Conclusion: Early anti-IL-17-mediated clinical remission in Ps is associated with decreased cTfh and cTph cell subpopulations.

The Effect of JAK Inhibitors on Patient-Reported Outcomes in Psoriatic Arthritis.

Objective: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the joints and skin of patients with psoriasis. In this review we aimed to summarise the available evidence regarding the effect of Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) when used for the management of PsA. Methods: We utilised a narrative review approach as we searched the available literature for articles to be included in our study. Results: JAKi have been found to be effective in inducing better PRO responses compared to placebo. These findings have been consistent across various patient populations, including those with active PsA, those with an inadequate response to conventional therapies, and those with comorbidities. The evidence supporting the benefits of JAKi on PROs in PsA is compelling, demonstrating consistent improvements in pain, physical function, fatigue, and quality of life. Conclusion: Numerous studies have demonstrated the the efficacy of JAKi in improving PROs in patients with PsA.

Identification and characteristics of patients with potential difficult-to-treat Psoriatic Arthritis: exploratory analyses of the Greek PsA registry.

OBJECTIVE: To present the characteristics of patients with potential difficult-to-treat (D2T) psoriatic arthritis (PsA). METHODS: We used data from the Greek multicentre registry of PsA patients. D2T-PsA was defined as follows: patients with at least 6-months disease duration, who have failed to at least 1 csDMARD and at least 2 bDMARDs/tsDMARDs with a different mechanism of action and have either at least moderate disease activity (MODA) defined as DAPSA > 14, and/or are not at minimal disease activity (MDA). Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared between D2T and non-D2T PsA patients. In two sensitivity analyses, patients classified as D2T solely according to the MODA or MDA criterion were examined separately. RESULTS: Among 467 patients included, 77 (16.5%) were considered D2T and 390 non-D2T PsA. Compared with non-D2T, patients with D2T PsA presented more commonly with extensive psoriasis (p< 0.0001) and were more likely to have higher BMI (p= 0.023) and a history of inflammatory bowel disease (p= 0.026). In the MODA and MDA sensitivity analyses, 7.5% and 12.5% of patients were considered D2T, respectively. In both sensitivity analyses, extensive psoriasis was again identified as an independent variable for D2T PsA (p= 0.001 and p= 0.008, respectively). Moreover, female gender (p= 0.034) in the MODA analysis and axial disease (p= 0.040) in the MDA analysis were independent variables for D2T PsA. CONCLUSION: Despite the availability of therapies, D2T PsA is common in real-life cohorts of patients with PsA and extensive psoriasis. High BMI, female gender, axial-disease, and history of IBD were also associated with D2T PsA.

Unraveling the intricate dance of the Mediterranean diet and gut microbiota in autoimmune resilience.

The nutritional habits regulate the gut microbiota and increase risk of an autoimmune disease. Western diet is rich in sugars, meat, and poly-unsaturated fatty acids, which lead to dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota, disruption of gut epithelial barrier and chronic mucosal inflammation. In contrast, the Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) is abundant in ω3 fatty acids, fruits, and vegetables, possessing anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to the restoration of gut eubiosis. Numerous studies have extensively examined the impact of MedDiet and its components on both health and various disease states. Additionally, specific investigations have explored the correlation between MedDiet, microbiota, and the risk of autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, the MedDiet has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, playing a pivotal role in lowering mortality rates among individuals with autoimmune diseases and comorbidities. The aim of the present review is to specifically highlight current knowledge regarding possible interactions of MedDiet with the patterns of intestinal microbiota focusing on autoimmunity and a blueprint through dietary modulations for the prevention and management of disease's activity and progression.

Proteomics in Patients with Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a disease of unknown pathophysiology, with the diagnosis being based on a set of clinical criteria. Proteomic analysis can provide significant biological information for the pathophysiology of the disease but may also reveal biomarkers for diagnosis or therapeutic targets. The present systematic review aims to synthesize the evidence regarding the proteome of adult patients with FMS using data from observational studies. RECENT FINDINGS: An extensive literature search was conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, CENTRAL, and clinicaltrials.gov from inception until November 2022. The study protocol was published in OSF. Two independent reviewers evaluated the studies and extracted data. The quality of studies was assessed using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale adjusted for proteomic research. Ten studies fulfilled the protocol criteria, identifying 3328 proteins, 145 of which were differentially expressed among patients with FMS against controls. The proteins were identified in plasma, serum, cerebrospinal fluid, and saliva samples. The control groups included healthy individuals and patients with pain (inflammatory and non-inflammatory). The most important proteins identified involved transferrin, α-, ß-, and γ-fibrinogen chains, profilin-1, transaldolase, PGAM1, apolipoprotein-C3, complement C4A and C1QC, immunoglobin parts, and acute phase reactants. Weak correlations were observed between proteins and pain sensation, or quality of life scales, apart from the association of transferrin and a2-macroglobulin with moderate-to-severe pain sensation. The quality of included studies was moderate-to-good. FMS appears to be related to protein dysregulation in the complement and coagulation cascades and the metabolism of iron. Several proteins may be dysregulated due to the excessive oxidative stress response.

CD32 (FcγRIIB) expression is low on CD21low B cells from systemic sclerosis patients with digital ulcers, interstitial lung disease, and anti-topoisomerase I autoantibodies.

CD21low B cells have recently been found increased in SSc-associated digital ulcers (DUs) or interstitial lung disease (ILD). To further characterize CD21low B cells which encompass autoreactive cells, we analyzed their expression of the inhibitory CD32 receptor in SSc. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 27 patients with SSc and 15 age-and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) were analyzed with multicolor flow cytometry. CD21low B cells were significantly increased in patients with DUs (51.3%) compared to HCs (28.1%) and in patients with ILD (53.1%) compared to HCs. CD21lowCD32low B cells were significantly increased in patients with DUs (23.8%) compared to HCs (4.4%), in patients with ILD (28.4%) compared to HCs, and in anti-topoisomerase I (+) patients (21.5%) compared to HCs and to anti-topoisomerase I (-) patients (2.4%). Autoreactive B cells recognizing Topoisomerase I were predominantly within CD32low cell fraction. Our study further supports the autoreactive status of CD21lowCD32low B cells in SSc patients.

PDE4 Gene Family Variants Are Associated with Response to Apremilast Treatment in Psoriasis.

Moderate-to-severe psoriasis (Ps) treatment includes systemic drugs and biological agents. Apremilast, a small molecule primarily metabolized by cytochrome CYP3A4, modulates the immune system by specifically inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4) isoforms and is currently used for the treatment of Ps and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Clinical trials and real-world data showed variable efficacy in response among Ps patients underlying the need for personalized therapy. This study implements a candidate-gene and a network-based approach to identify genetic markers associated with apremilast response in forty-nine Greek Ps patients. Our data revealed an association of sixty-four SNPs within or near PDE4 and CYP3A4 genes, four SNPs in ncRNAs ANRIL, LINC00941 and miR4706, which influence the abundance or function of PDE4s, and thirty-three SNPs within fourteen genes whose protein products either interact directly with PDE4 proteins or constitute components of the cAMP signaling pathway which is modulated by PDE4s. Notably, fifty-six of the aforementioned SNPs constitute eQTLs for the respective genes in relevant to psoriasis tissues/cells implying that these variants could be causal. Our analysis provides a number of novel genetic variants that, upon validation in larger cohorts, could be utilized as predictive markers regarding the response of Ps patients to apremilast treatment.

Plaque Psoriasis Exacerbation and COVID-19 Vaccination: Assessing the Characteristics of the Flare and the Exposome Parameters.

The diverse patient population and widespread vaccination in the COVD-19 era make vaccine-triggered episodes of psoriasis an ideal model of exposome research. This scenario explores the fine balance between protective and exacerbating factors, providing insights into the complex relationship between environmental exposure and psoriasis immunopathogenesis when a trigger appears, such as that of the hyperinflammatory state induced by the COVID-19 vaccine. Analyzing interactions between vaccine-induced phenomena and exposome parameters may provide clinically relevant information important for personalized medicine decision-making. We performed a literature review seeking patients with plaque psoriasis flares or new onset or change in plaque psoriasis into another psoriasis subtype, such as pustular or erythrodermic flare, focusing on the inner and external exposome traits of patients. We identified 71 patients with plaque psoriasis flares, 12 patients with new-onset psoriasis, and 17 with plaque psoriasis subtype change, and assessed the COVID-19 vaccine-induced plaque psoriasis in terms of clinical presentation, post-vaccination flare period and treatment status, as well as inner exposome parameters (genomics, oxidative stress, hormonal impact due to gender, aging, skin color) and external parameters (UV, infectomics). Novel data on psoriasis flares following COVID-19 vaccination are primarily obtained by combining exposome and vaccine-triggered episode features and characteristics and comparing them with similar psoriasis flares unrelated to COVID-19 vaccination.

Risk of multiple sclerosis in patients with psoriasis receiving anti-IL-17 agents: A case-based review.

Biologics approved for psoriasis exhibit favorable safety profiles, and serious adverse events have rarely been reported. In this report, we present the case of a patient treated with ixekizumab, an anti-interleukin (IL)-17 agent, who 8 months later developed multiple sclerosis (MS). We also review the available literature regarding the use of anti-IL-17 agents in the context of psoriasis and pre-existing or new-onset demyelination. Eight case reports were evaluated as relevant and are presented in our report. In most of the cases secukinumab or ixekizumab administration adequately controlled both skin and pre-existing neurological clinical manifestations. However, there has been a report of MS exacerbation under secukinumab treatment and the occurrence of myelitis in a patient receiving ixekizumab. While the anti-IL-17-biologic-mediated induction of inflammatory events in the central nervous system has not been proven and a causal relationship is lacking, such a probability should be considered in extremely rare cases.

Cannabidiol Mediates In Vitro Attenuation of Proinflammatory Cytokine Responses in Psoriatic Disease.

Background: Cannabidiol (CBD), a substance that belongs to the phytocannabinoids, appears to exert antioxidant, neuroprotective, antipsychotic, anticonvulsant, and anticancer properties. Recent evidence supports the immunoregulatory effect of CBD on autoimmune and/or inflammatory disease. Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease. The main immune cell population involved in the pathogenesis of the disease is the interleukin- (IL-) 17-producing T helper (Th) 17 subset. Other subpopulations, such as interferon-γ (IFNγ) -producing Th1 and T cytotoxic (Tc) 1, IL-17-producing Tc17, as well as natural killer (NK) and natural killer T cells (NKT) have been implicated in psoriasis development. Purpose: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the in vitro effect of CBD on the aforementioned subpopulations isolated from patients with psoriasis using flow cytometry. Methods: Cells were stimulated in the presence or absence of CBD, stained and examined using surface and intracellular markers. Results: CBD decreased IL-17 production within the CD3, Th, and NKT cell compartments and IFNγ production within the CD3 compartment in cells isolated from patients with psoriasis. Interestingly, CBD supplementation did not inhibit production of proinflammatory cytokines in cells isolated from healthy individuals. On the contrary, IFNγ-producing Th, Tc, and NK cells increased after CBD supplementation. Conclusion: CBD provides anti-inflammatory effects in T cells isolated from patients with psoriasis. Our results could be the impetus for future investigations regarding the immunomodulatory properties of CBD and its utilization for development of CBD-containing antipsoriatic agents.

Beat the Clock: Assessment of Night Eating Syndrome and Circadian Rhythm in a Sample of Greek Adults.

The night eating syndrome (NES) is characterized by excessive food intake during the evening and night hours, with 25% of the daily intake being consumed post-dinner, paired with ep-isodes of nocturnal food intake, at a frequency of more than twice weekly. The NES has been associated with a misaligned circadian rhythm related to a delay in overall food intake, increased energy and fat consumption. The present cross-sectional study aimed to assess NES in a Greek population and evaluate possible links between NES and chronotype. NES was assessed using the Night Eating Questionnaire (NEQ), and circadian rhythm, sleep and mood were evaluated with the Sleep, Circadian Rhythms, and Mood (SCRAM) questionnaire. A total of 533 adults participated in the study. A relatively high prevalence of NES was revealed, with more than 8.1% (NEQ ≥ 30) of the participants reporting experiencing NES symptoms, depending on the NEQ threshold used. Most participants had the intermediate chronotype. NEQ score was positively associated with the morning chronotype, and SCRAM was negatively related to "Good Sleep". Each point increment in the depression score was associated with 6% higher odds of NES. The early identification of NES gains importance in clinical practice, in a collective effort aiming to reduce NES symptomatology and its detrimental health effects.

To treat or not to treat rheumatoid arthritis with glucocorticoids? A reheated debate.

The therapeutic landscape of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has rapidly evolved in the last few decades. At the same time, recommendations for the management of the disease suggest to minimize glucocorticoids (GCs) use in RA patients. Major concerns are the risk of long-term adverse events and the difficulties in discontinuing GCs once initiated. However, real-world data show that up to 50% of RA patients continue to take GCs during the disease course. Adverse events of GCs usually occur after a long-term use, which can limit the generalizability of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) proving no or minimal harm. Observational studies show conflicting results regarding the safety of GSs and are subjected to a high risk of bias, including indication bias. Thus, whether or not GCs should be used in the management of RA is still a matter of debate. The main reasons to support GCs use are the ability to rapidly suppress joint inflammation while waiting for the full effect of conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARD) and the acknowledged efficacy on radiographic progression in early RA. The main reasons to avoid GCs use in RA are that their potential risks may outweigh their benefits and there is no agreement on the minimal daily dosage of GC which can be considered safe.

Efficacy of tyrosine-kinase-2 and phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors for scalp psoriasis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Psoriasis of the scalp is challenging to manage. The only approved oral tyrosine kinase 2 and phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitors for psoriasis are deucravacitinib and apremilast. The aim of this study was to explore their efficacy for scalp psoriasis utilizing data from randomized controlled trials. METHODS: We searched Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, CENTRAL, and ClinicalTrials.gov up to August 4, 2023. To determine risk of bias, the revised Risk of Bias assessment tool 2.0 was used. Inverse variance random effects meta-analyses were executed. Heterogeneity was assessed utilizing Q and I2 statistics. Pre-determined outcomes included the proportion of participants with cleared scalp skin (Scalp Physician's Global Assessment [ScPGA] of 0/1), mean change in Psoriasis Scalp Severity Index (PSSI), and mean improvement in Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). RESULTS: Ten RCTs fulfilled inclusion criteria. Both apremilast (RR = 2.41, 95% CI = 2.08-2.79, Tau2 = 0, I2 = 0) and deucravacitinib (RR = 3.86, 95% CI = 3.02-4.94, Tau2 = 0, I2 = 0) were more effective in inducing ScPGA of 0/1 at 16 weeks compared to placebo. Furthermore, deucravacitinib was more effective than apremilast (RR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.44-2.00, Tau2 = 0, I2 = 0). An analysis could not be executed for the rest of the outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Apremilast and deucravacitinib are effective for scalp psoriasis. Deucravacitinib may be more efficient in clearing the scalp.

Temporomandibular joint disorders in seronegative spondyloarthritis: what a rheumatologist needs to know?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can be affected in the context of spondyloarthritis (SpA) with detrimental impact on individuals' quality of life. Intra-articular inflammation, synovitis, enthesitis, disc displacement and cervical vertebrae malalignment are some of the pathophysiological phenomena involved. Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) incidence appears to be higher in patients with ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis, especially when clinical evaluation includes not only imaging but relevant history, TMJ examination and diagnostic criteria for TMD. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score and Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ) quality of life score could be useful tools. Panoramic radiographs and ultrasound can be used for screening but in symptomatic patients magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is preferable. Conservative management and early pharmacological treatment can prevent permanent joint impairment. For refractory cases, early referral to Legislation for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) specialists is indicated. The aim of this narrative review is to address the involvement of TMJ in SpA and to encourage clinicians to incorporate TMJ assessment in their physical examination and basic screening.

Efficacy of biologic agents for palmoplantar psoriasis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Palmoplantar psoriasis (PP) represents a localized type of disease. While controversy over its' classification exists, a hyperkeratotic type, a pustular type and palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) have been recognized. PP management is regularly supported by biologic agents. Our study aimed to review and synthesize available data regarding the efficacy of approved biologics for PP and PPP. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, CENTRAL, Scopus, and ClinicalTrilas.gov. Utilizing random-effects inverse-variance frequentist network meta-analyses (NMAs), we ranked interventions. The proportion of participants with cleared skin was the primary outcome. Fifty and 75% improvement in palmoplantar psoriasis area severity index (PPASI) were also explored (PPASI50, PPASI75). RESULTS: In total, 15 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exploring the efficacy of on-label adalimumab, bimekizumab, etanercept, guselkumab, infliximab, ixekizumab, secukinumab, and ustekinumab were included. Data for PP were synthesized. Every biologic agent examined, except from infliximab, outperformed placebo. On-label secukinumab exhibited the highest probability of inducing complete resolution. Ixekizumab and infliximab ranked best on inducing PPASI50 and PPASI75. Our review supports that guselkumab is effective for PPP. CONCLUSIONS: Secukinumab, ixekizumab and infliximab are effective for PP. Research is warranted to produce evidence about the efficacy of biologics in PP and PPP.

Omicron variant dominance and anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination are key determinants for a milder course of COVID-19 in patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to determine whether the introduction of anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and the dominance of the omicron variant had a significant impact on the outcome of COVID-19 in patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SAIRDs). METHODS: Using data entered to the Greek Rheumatology Society COVID-19 registry, we investigated the incidence of hospitalization and death due to COVID-19, during the successive periods of the pandemic according to the prevalent strain (wild-type, Alpha, Delta, Omicron) in vaccinated and unvaccinated patients. Variables independently associated with hospitalization and death were explored using multivariate regression analyses, while Kaplan-Meier curves were used to depict survival data. RESULTS: From August 2020 until June 30, 2022, 456 cases (70.2% females) of COVID-19 with a mean age (± SD) of 51.4 ± 14.0 years were reported. In unvaccinated patients, the proportions of hospitalization and death were 24.5% and 4%, compared to 12.5% and 0.8% in the vaccinated group (p < 0.001 for both comparisons). The rates of hospitalization for the wild-type, Alpha, Delta, and Omicron periods were 24.7%, 31.3%, 25.9%, and 8.1% respectively (p < 0.0001), while the case fatality rates were 2.7%, 4%, 7%, and 0%, respectively (p = 0.001). Using multivariable regression analysis, factors independently associated with hospitalization were infection by a non-Omicron variant, being non-vaccinated, exposure to rituximab, older age, and respiratory and cardiovascular disease. Independent predictors for death were contracting COVID-19 during the Alpha or Delta period, pulmonary disease, and older age, while being vaccinated was protective. CONCLUSIONS: In this 2-year analysis, the rates of hospitalization and death among patients with SAIRDs have declined significantly. Vaccination and the dominance of the Omicron variant appear to be the major determinants for this shift. Key points • During the late phase of the pandemic, the proportion of severe COVID-19 cases, defined as requiring hospitalization or resulting in death, in patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases has declined. • Anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and the dominance of the Omicron strain are the key factors that have independently contributed to this shift.

Pustular Eruption following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Narrative Case-Based Review.

From the beginning of public vaccinations until the relaxation of COVID-19 measures, many case reports, case series and case-control studies have been published indicating cutaneous side effects of COVID-19 vaccination. Post-vaccination pustular eruption was reported as well, with a challenging differential diagnosis between pustular psoriasis, AGEP (acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis) and neutrophil pustular eruptions. We report a case of 56-year-old woman presented with acute generalized pustular flare up culminated 5 days after the second dose of BNT162b2(Pfizer) vaccination. She was diagnosed with pustular psoriasis flare and due to the regulating role of IL-1 in pustular psoriasis and in the cytokine storm observed in cases of COVID-19 postvaccination inflammation; we decided to treat the patient with an IL-1 antagonist, subcutaneous anakinra (100 mg daily) along with acitretin. One week later, after anakinra withdrawal, she presented a pustular psoriasis flare and a 7-day anakinra re-administration led to a satisfactory improvement in the skin lesions. We also reviewed the medical literature and found 28 case reports with pustular eruption after the COVID-19 vaccination. We compared the patients reported, regarding sex, age, number of doses, post-vaccination period and vaccine brand, and compared those results with our patient. Finally, as indicated by our case and other cases with similarly treated pustular eruptions. targeted therapy to this cytokine imbalance such as anakinra (IL-1) antagonist can improve the clinical course of the patient.

Diet Quality and Nutritional Risk Based on the FIGO Nutrition Checklist among Greek Pregnant Women: A Cross-Sectional Routine Antenatal Care Study.

The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) nutrition checklist is a tool for everyday antenatal clinical practice, easy to use by most healthcare professionals, aiming to initiate a conversation regarding gestational weight gain (GWG) and nutrition and identify women who might require further assessment. The present cross-sectional study aimed to apply the FIGO nutrition checklist to pregnant women attending routine antenatal care and identify nutritional risk factors. Pregnant women (n = 200) were recruited from the outpatient pregnancy clinics of two hospitals in Thessaloniki and completed the checklist. The FIGO-diet quality score and the FIGO-nutritional risk score (NRS) were calculated. The results revealed that 99% of the women exhibited at least one nutritional risk factor based on the checklist. The median FIGO diet quality score of the sample was 4.0 (3.0-5.0), with 95% of the participants responding negatively to at least one question, indicating the need for improving diet quality. Improved diet quality was noted in cases of hyperemesis gravidarum and among those receiving vitamin D supplements. A large percentage of the participants (36%) exhibited five or more nutritional risk factors, as indicated by a total FIGO-NRS below 5. Women with low middle-upper arm circumference, indicative of protein-energy malnutrition (20.6% of the sample), exhibited more nutritional risk factors compared with the rest. On the other hand, being in the third trimester of pregnancy was associated with lower nutritional risk and, subsequently, better diet quality.