Malnutrition costing £13bn
Often the only food-related illnesses highlighted in the press are those resulting from being over-weight or obese, and eating too much. However an article on the BBC website highlights the number of people in the UK who are suffering from malnutrition.
The problem is costing £13bn – twice as high as predicted – according to a report by the British Association for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, and 93% of those either suffering from or at risk of malnutrition were living in their own home or in sheltered accommodation. They urged GPs to do more to to screen people for malnutrition, which gives them a risk percentage.
The BAPEN want emphasis placed on prevention, in order to help reduce costs. Those who are malnourished are often more susceptible to catching illnesses and have to stay in hospital longer.
Read more and the Department of Health’s response…