Undernutrition and Nutritional Care in Hospitalized Adults

Descriptive cross-sectional study, conducted among 644 adult patients hospitalized in three hospitals in Kinshasa. 231 patients were undernourished, for a prevalence of 36%. It is highest in the 40 to 49 age group (26.4%). It increases hospital stays between 45-69 days in 43.9% of patients. It affects both sexes (p = 0.781). Persistence of inflammation (p <0.05), reduction of ingesta (p <0.05), protein deficit linked to the action of catabolism and cytokines (p <0.05), increased protein-energy expenditure during infectious, inflammatory, traumatic states and the absence of nutritional treatment (95% of cases) did not lead to an improvement in the nutritional state of the patients followed. Care practices are characterized by the lack of organization of nutrition and food services; the absence of policies, screening strategies and management of undernutrition. Undernutrition goes unnoticed and underestimated. The creation of a Clinical Food and Nutrition Service is urgently needed. National health policy attention remains necessary.

Autorentext

Dr. Israël KALONJI ILUNGA, Spezialisierter Master in Ernährungspolitik, Senghor University of Alexandria (Ägypten), Preis für Exzellenz von Wallonia Brussels International. Doktor der Medizin, Universität Lubumbashi (DR Kongo). Technischer Assistent des Nationalen Ernährungsprogramms: Koordination von Kasai-Oriental in Mbuji-Mayi.