The Risk of Malnutrition in Community-Living Elderly on Admission to Hospital for Major Surgery

This Belgian multicenter study examined the prevalence of malnutrition risk in independently living elderly (≥65 years) upon hospital admission for elective surgery. A total of 208 patients (mean age 74.8 years) were screened using the validated NRS-2002 tool. Nearly 51.4% were malnourished or at high risk of malnutrition, increasing to 66% among patients over 70. None of the patients had received preoperative nutritional advice or supplements. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as reduced appetite and food intake were significant predictors of malnutrition, while other somatic, psychological, or social factors were not independently associated. Factors such as polypharmacy and low educational level showed borderline associations. The study highlights that malnutrition risk often goes unrecognized (only 14% were aware), while preoperative nutritional care in line with ESPEN guidelines is essential to reduce postoperative complications. These findings call for systematic nutritional screening and timely intervention in this vulnerable population to improve care quality and clinical outcomes.

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