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Abstract
In Belgium, general data on the prevalence of malnutrition are lacking. Prevalence
rates are necessary to gain insight into the magnitude of malnutrition and to establish
a nutrition policy that takes the limited health care resources into account. This
study aimed to obtain insight into the prevalence of malnutrition in Belgian elderly
hospital wards and to identify factors associated with the malnutrition prevalence.
A cross-sectional, multi-centre study in elderly wards of Belgian hospitals. The nutritional
status was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment. A standardised questionnaire
was used to record demographic data and data on potential factors associated with
malnutrition.
Out of 2329 elderly patients, 33% suffered from malnutrition. Almost 43% of the patients
were at risk of malnutrition and 24% were well-nourished. Having swallowing difficulties,
taste difficulties, and being transferred from a nursing home were strongly associated
with being malnourished.
The malnutrition prevalence in Belgian elderly hospitals wards is similar to international
figures. Elderly who have swallowing difficulties, taste difficulties, or coming from
a nursing home may need adequate nutritional care. Given the negative impact of malnutrition
on mortality and morbidity, an emphasis should be placed on an effective nutritional
policy.
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