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8/26/09

Malnutrition: Europe`s Hidden Weight Problem - Medical Nutrition International Industry | Reuters

EU-DigestESPEN

Malnutrition: Europe`s Hidden Weight Problem - Medical Nutrition International Industry

In Europe today, malnutrition is not always recognized and often neglected which makes the problem of malnutrition as serious as the health threat of obesity according to the new short film entitled `Malnutrition - Another Weight Problem`. Launched by the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolis (ESPEN), the European Nutrition for Health Alliance (ENHA) and the Medical Nutrition International Industry group (MNI), this film calls for a concerted action from governments,health institutions and professionals to address this issue. In Europe, malnutrition often affects the elderly living either at home or in nursing institutions, yet it is rarely recognized. It is estimated that up to 50 million Europeans (or people) are malnourished. Studies show that one third patients in hospital and nursing homes are malnourished as are 10 percent of individuals over the age of 65 in the European Union (EU).

In the film, ESPEN`s President and Co- Chair of the Alliance, Prof Olle Ljungqvist, calls for urgent and effective action: "Malnutrition is a major problem in the community, care homes and hospitals and has severe health implications. Individuals have a right to expect adequate nutritional as well as clinical care from healthcare professionals, yet this is not always addressed."

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