The optimal rate of feeding advancement after initiation of early enteral nutrition (EEN) for underweight, critically ill patients is unknown. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with a body mass index (BMI) < 20.0 kg/m 2 . Patients were categorized into Group R, which reached the energy target within 3 days of EEN initiation, and Group S, which reached the energy target 4 or more days after EEN initiation. Results: A total of 65 patients

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... a median age of 73 years were included in the study. No significant differences were observed between the two groups for all-cause mortality, ICU-free days, or length of hospital stay. Ventilator-free days (VFDs) were significantly fewer in Group R than in Group S (18.0 [0.0 -22.0] vs. 21.0 [16.3 -24.8] days; P = 0.046). A significantly higher number of patients requiring mechanical ventilation (MV) at hospital discharge were observed in Group R than in Group S (29% vs. 8%; P = 0.030). Multivariable analyses with adjustment for confounders found that days required to reach target energy intake after EEN initiation were significantly and independently associated with the requirement for MV at hospital discharge, but not with VFDs. Conclusion: A slow rate of feeding advancement after initiation of EEN in critically ill patients having a BMI of <20.0 kg/m 2 might be associated with a reduced requirement for MV at hospital discharge. These results require confirmation in a large multicenter trial of underweight, critically ill patients.