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Malnutrition in hospitalized pediatric patients. Current prevalence

K M Hendricks1, C Duggan, L Gallagher

  • 1Simmons College, Boston, Mass, USA.

Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
|October 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Protein-energy malnutrition remains prevalent in hospitalized children, despite a decrease since 1976. Key risk factors include chronic disease and rapid growth periods, highlighting the need for nutrition intervention.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nutrition
  • Clinical Malnutrition
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a significant concern in hospitalized populations.
  • Previous studies have established baseline prevalence rates for comparison.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the current prevalence of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) in hospitalized children with data from 1976.
  • To identify current risk factors associated with malnutrition in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional survey was conducted on all inpatients at a tertiary-care facility in Boston.
  • Nutritional status was assessed using anthropometric, laboratory, and clinical methods.
  • Data were collected on demographics, medical conditions, and nutrition support.

Main Results:

  • The prevalence of acute PEM was 1.3% severe, 5.8% moderate, and 17.4% mild.
  • The prevalence of chronic PEM was 5.1% severe, 7.7% moderate, and 14.5% mild.
  • Malnutrition rates were significantly lower than in 1976 but remained high; risk factors included age extremes and chronic conditions. Obesity was also prevalent.

Conclusions:

  • Protein-energy malnutrition is still common among hospitalized pediatric patients in the US.
  • Underlying chronic diseases, rapid growth phases, and the need for nutritional support are significant risk factors.
  • Continued vigilance and intervention strategies are necessary to address pediatric malnutrition in healthcare settings.
Abstract

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