Malnutrition: Consequences for clinical outcomes in the context of German hospitals

Abstract

Some 70-75% of diseases are primarily caused by diet and lifestyle-induced problems. Undernutrition and malnutrition affect all relevant clinical factors: mortality, length of hospital stay, morbidity, and thus the quality of life. Undernutrition and malnutrition are common in hospitals, and are a growing problem. They are costly and have clinical consequences. Europe-wide studies and meta-analyses testify to the significance of the therapeutic provision of nutrition for patients admitted to hospital, and also demonstrate its cost-effectiveness. For the therapy to be successful, early, targeted assessment of the patient's status is necessary in order to ensure the guideline-based implementation of recognized dietary concepts. This requires a qualified nutrition support team consisting of medical nutritionists, general nutritionists, dietitians and other qualified nutrition professionals. Every patient admitted to hospital should be examined and documented in accordance with the established parameters for undernutrition and malnutrition, and a diet plan developed for his or her specific needs. Undernutrition and malnutrition cost €9 billion per year in Germany alone. These costs could be reduced by the application of medical nutrition therapy in hospitals. Individuals can also protect themselves by adopting a healthy lifestyle. This begins with the consumption of healthy foods.