Survey of Latin American ketogenic diet centers: Challenges and success for "La Terapia Cetogénica".
Study Goal
The researchers aimed to assess the availability and operation of ketogenic diet therapy (KDT) centers in Latin America and identify challenges in its adoption.
Results Summary
The study identified 98 KDT centers in Latin America, with nearly half being public institutions. Core teams typically included a neurologist and dietitian, but protocols for transitioning to adult care and consistent data on Glut1 patients were lacking.
Population
Individuals with epilepsy in Latin America, specifically those treated at KDT centers.
Effective Dosage
Not mentioned
Duration
Not mentioned
Interactions
None mentioned
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ketogenic diet therapies (KDT) | decrease | seizure frequency | individuals with epilepsy | - | efficacy in reducing | #1 |
ketogenic diet therapies (KDT) | increase | quality of life | individuals with epilepsy | - | improving | #2 |
OBJECTIVE: Despite growing recognition of the efficacy of ketogenic diet therapies (KDT) in reducing seizure frequency and improving the quality of life for individuals with epilepsy, several factors hinder their widespread adoption across Latin America. Specific challenges in the region have been discussed but not formally studied. Currently, no data exist on the availability and operation of KDT teams in the region. To address this gap, we conducted a survey of KDT centers across Latin American countries in the framework of the biannual International Ketogenic Diet Conference in September 2023. METHODS: A seven-question survey was distributed via email to neurologists, dietitians, or through indexed publications. RESULTS: Of the 16 centers approached, 14 (87.5%) responded, identifying 98 KDT centers. Nearly half (49%) are public institutions, primarily in Brazil, Chile, and Mexico; 44 are private; and 5 are mixed. Core teams in all centers included a neurologist and dietitian, with some teams in Argentina, Chile, and Paraguay also involving a medical nutritionist. None of the centers reported a protocol for transitioning to adult care, and consistent data on Glut1 patients and protocols were lacking. SIGNIFICANCE: Over the past two decades, the KDT landscape in Latin America has improved, with established centers expanding and new ones emerging. However, continued efforts are needed to promote KDT adoption in countries where it is not yet practiced and in regions with limited resources and expertise.