Knowledge and practices of the multidisciplinary team from primary health care about sarcopenia and nutrient drug interactions in elderly

Abstract

The objective was to describe the knowledge and practices of the multidisciplinary team of a Primary Health Care Unit (PHCU) regarding drug-nutrient interactions and sarcopenia in the elderly. This is an exploratory study of qualitative nature. Knowledge and practices were assessed through a semi-structured questionnaire. The interviewees did not know how to define sarcopenia, but they could reconcile the loss of muscle mass with its possible signs, symptoms, and impacts. The calf circumference assessment did not cover all the elderly in the community. No training or capacity building specifically addressed the health issues of the elderly. The interviewees believed in the existence of drug-nutrient interaction. The elderly had many difficulties in using medications correctly, and the most commonly used medications were hypoglycemic agents, antihypertensives, and anti-inflammatories. The population had many socioeconomic difficulties, and they needed food baskets. The eating habits of the elderly included a high consumption of carbohydrates and lipids, and a low consumption of proteins, vegetables, fruits, and greens. The bioavailability of nutrients, medications, and possible interactions must be taken into consideration so that nutritional status and drug treatment are not compromised. For, good nutritional intake allows the prevention and prevents the progression of sarcopenia. And Primary Health Care should act in the early diagnosis of sarcopenia and in the development of actions for the prevention, and management of sarcopenia and associated conditions.