Malnutrition Awareness Week
September 16th –20th is Malnutrition awareness week. In Midland, the challenge of maintaining proper nutrition is compounded by the area's status as a food desert. The USDA defines a food desert as an area where a large portion of the population has limited access to a variety of healthy and affordable food options. Many parts of the Permian Basin qualify as food deserts. This means residents, especially those without reliable transportation, struggle to access fresh fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods. In 2022, Texas's food insecurity rate was 16.4%, which is 1 in 6 people. This is up from 13.7% in 2021
How can we recognize the signs of malnutrition in our communities? The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) points to several key indicators:
- Unintended Weight Loss: Sudden or gradual weight loss without trying can be a red flag. For older adults, losing 5% of body weight in a month or 10% in six months is cause for concern.
- Decreased Appetite: A persistent lack of interest in food, especially in those who once enjoyed eating, may signal nutritional problems.
- Fatigue and Weakness: Malnutrition can lead to muscle wasting and a lack of energy. If an older adult is struggling with daily activities, they once found easy, it could be a sign of poor nutrition.
- Frequent Illnesses: A weakened immune system due to malnutrition can result in more frequent infections and longer recovery times.
- Poor Wound Healing: Cuts, scrapes, or surgical incisions that are slow to heal may indicate nutritional deficiencies.
- Mood Changes: Depression, irritability, or anxiety can sometimes be linked to poor nutrition.
We often see these signs in older adults living alone, those with chronic health conditions, or individuals in neighborhoods far from grocery stores. It's crucial for family members, neighbors, and caregivers to be aware and vigilant.
The causes of malnutrition in the community are multifaceted. The West Texas Food Bank reports their service area is affected by high rates of hunger, poor nutrition, and related health problems. Of their clients, 74% have incomes below the federal poverty level, 40% are children under the age of 18, and 16% are elderly. Chronic diseases, common in older adults, can also interfere with nutrient absorption. Conditions like dementia can lead to complications ranging from difficulty swallowing to loss of appetite. In Midland, these factors are exacerbated by the food desert issue.
The economic impact of this condition is hard to believe. Disease-associated malnutrition in older adults costs an estimated $51.3 billion per year in the United States alone. This number underscores the urgent need for better detection and intervention strategies, especially in underserved areas like parts of Midland.
At Midland Memorial Hospital, we are implementing more rigorous nutrition screening protocols to catch and to develop a plan to address malnutrition through the discharge process. This screening helps to identify patients to enroll in our Food FARMacy program that allows for further nutrition education and access to fresh produce for several weeks after discharge.
It is important to recognize the role that nutrition plays in overall health. If you notice these signs in a loved one or neighbor, don't hesitate to suggest an evaluation. In Midland, where access to healthy food can be challenging, it's even more crucial to be proactive. Work with a dietitian to develop a custom nutrition plan.
As our population continues to grow and age, addressing malnutrition becomes increasingly vital. By recognizing the signs early, we can improve the quality of life for countless individuals in our community.
Written by Kaitlyn Greb, RD, LD
Director of Food and Nutrition at Midland Health