Malnutrition Awareness Week 2025: WASPEN Urges Action on Hospital Nutrition Crisis!

The West African Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (WASPEN) raised concerns about the high prevalence of hospital malnutrition in Nigeria during the Malnutrition Awareness Week 2025. President and Founder Teresa Pounds emphasized the silent epidemic of malnutrition in hospitals, impacting patient outcomes, recovery, and healthcare costs.

WASPEN launched a campaign themed "United Against Malnutrition," aligning with a global movement to address this issue. Studies reveal that up to 45% of hospitalized patients in Nigeria suffer from malnutrition, affecting vulnerable groups like surgical, pediatric, oncology, and elderly patients.

Malnourished patients experience delayed wound healing, higher infection risks, and prolonged hospital stays, highlighting the need for preventive measures and awareness.