The Significance of Malnutrition Adequate Nutrition Improves the Immunocompromised State Implications of Malnutrition Robert G. Martindale, MD, PhD Associate Professor of Surgery Gastrointestinal Surgery Service Medical College of Georgia Augusta, Georgia

The Problems Associated with Malnutrition

In the past 25 years, it has become increasingly clear that malnutrition is a significant contributor to poor patient care in hospitals and institutions. About 150 studies have documented the breadth and severity of malnutrition and its impact on morbidity, mortality and costs. (See Recommended Readings)

The prevalence of malnutrition in the institutional setting is alarming: studies (Reilly 1988 & McWhirter 1989) have consistently shown that up to 55% of hospital patients are malnourished or at risk for malnourishment. The following data show malnutrition remains a problem for patients in every service area and type of hospital.

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Malnutrition: A Common Problem Frank N. Konstantinides, MT, MS Clinical Associate Professor College of Pharmacy University of Minnesota St. Paul, MN

Malnutrition in Hospitalized Patients

Source: McWhirter 1994, n=50

Malnutrition in Type of Hospital


Provided as a courtesy by Robert G. Martindale, MD, PhD

There is also a tendency toward greater malnutrition with longer hospital stays. Studies show that standard measures of nutritional status decline during prolonged hospitalization in over 75% of patients admitted with normal values, while malnutrition significantly worsens in those already at risk on admission (Weinsier 1979, Agradi 1984).