Malnutrition and co-morbidity in diabetic kidney disease patients

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the most common cause of end-stage renal disease in many parts of the world. Protein energy malnutrition and associated co-morbid conditions are amongst the several important factors affecting the survival of these patients. The relative risk of mortality is higher in diabetic patients compared to non-diabetic patients. Co-morbidities are highly prevalent in diabetic patients and are considered to be one of the most important determinants of clinical outcome, in terms of survival and other adverse outcomes. The risk ratio of mortality in patients with co-morbidities is significantly higher compared to patients without co-morbidities. The combined presence of malnutrition and co-morbidities results in higher mortality. Dietary management is of paramount importance in patients with DKD. The emphasis should be placed on early detection, prevention and treatment of malnutrition, and associated co-morbidities in DKD patients for improving the overall clinical outcomes.