Malnutrition remains unrecognised and untreated : examples from dietetic practice and implications for action

Background: It is well documented that malnutrition has been and still is a widespread problem in NHS hospitals, yet it is not considered a priority. Sub-optimal nutrition in pregnancy can adversely affect the health of both mother and foetus. Poor dietary intaks following pelvic radiotherapy can impact on health and recovery of cancer sufferers. In Uk hospitals, numerous policies and campaigns have attempted to increase awareness and improve clinical management of malnutrition in recent decades, with limited success. The researcher is also a dietitian at the study hospital and so has an obligation to increase awareness and management of malnutrition. Aims: To identify the prevalence of some nutrition related problems in NHS hospital; to explore which areas of the community contribute malnourished women to the hospital; to investigate the role of malnutrition and its promotion within 'holistic care' and to review recent guidelines and policies aimed at tackling malnutrition in NHS hospitals.