2024-11-13 05:36:00
“It’s a disease that has gone under the radar for a long time. » For Agathe Raynaud-Simon, geriatrician and nutritionist at Bichat hospital (Paris 18th), member of the French Society of Geriatrics and Gerontology and president of the National Collective to Combat Undernutrition, there is no doubt: undernutrition “is indeed a disease. And not the symptom of an illness, as has long been thought.” How to detect it? How to fight? Everything you need to know, on the occasion of the 5th national malnutrition week, which begins this Tuesday.
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• Who is affected?
At least two million people are considered undernourished in France, according to figures from the French-speaking Society of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (SFNCM). A figure probably underestimated because “based on hospitalizations”, explains Agathe Raynaud-Simon, who estimates that “30% of people hospitalized are malnourished”.
One in two undernourished people “are over 65” but “50,000 children” are also affected, and adults, often linked “with one or more severe pathologies”. Certain cancers, such as pancreatic cancer, are accompanied by a high risk of malnutrition. But all cancers are affected.
“In 2007, we had 5% of undernourished people in our establishment,” indicates Pierre Senesse, gastroenterologist at the Montpellier Cancer Institute (Hérault). “In 2009, we went to 50%. The patients have not changed. But we have put in place the tools to detect and take care of them,” adds the specialist. Pathologies such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s are also accompanied by high risks of malnutrition.
• How to detect it?
Losing 5% of your weight in one month, or 10% in six months, is a sign of malnutrition, which is less serious for a healthy adult than for an elderly, frail and sick person. But not everyone has their eyes glued to their scales. Loss of appetite is a warning sign.
“If a person reduces their food intake by more than 50% for more than a week, it is a sign,” indicates Pauline Renard, director of La Picorée, a start-up specializing in food supplements. “Skipping meals, having an almost empty refrigerator or wearing clothes that are too big are indicators,” notes Agathe Raynaud-Simon. Poor oral hygiene or a meal delivered to your home that is used to make two are also warning signs.
• Why is it serious?
“Every time we lose weight, we penalize ourselves in the context of chronic illness,” warns Pierre Senesse. “The more advanced the disease, the more fat and muscle are important elements. Fat is the energy reserve. And muscle is to limit the side effects of chemotherapy. » “Muscle loss leads to increased risks of falling, and a drop in immunity,” warns Agathe Raynaud-Simon. “It’s also slower healing. Complications are much more common among malnourished people, both in hospital and at home. »
• How to fight?
To Discover
Answer
If a person loses their appetite, several strategies can be implemented. “The first is to split meals, by having snacks,” advises Shamyroko Fo-Siong, dietitian nutritionist and deputy director of the Toulouse start-up C-Diet. “Another is to enrich them. For example, in the evening bowl of soup, add a cheese spread to provide protein and calories. Or add butter and cheese to pasta. The main thing is to keep the notion of pleasure. »
Agathe Raynaud-Simon, who developed a quick questionnaire, advises older people to monitor their weight regularly: “once a month”, and “once a week when there are illnesses or events. of life.” From a loss of 3 kilos, you should not hesitate to consult: “Because the earlier we are detected, the easier it is to treat. »
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#Understanding #malnutrition #questions
**Interview with Dr. Agathe Raynaud-Simon on the Importance of Addressing Malnutrition**
**Host:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Raynaud-Simon. As we kick off the 5th National Malnutrition Week, can you please highlight the key issues surrounding malnutrition in France and your insights on its impacts?
**Dr. Raynaud-Simon:** Thank you for having me. Malnutrition is indeed a critical public health issue that has long been overlooked. At least two million people in France are considered undernourished, with an alarming proportion being the elderly. In fact, up to 30% of hospital patients may be malnourished at the time of admission. This isn’t just about being underweight; it’s a complex disease that can significantly affect recovery and overall health, particularly for older adults and those with chronic illnesses.
**Host:** What should people look out for when it comes to detecting malnutrition?
**Dr. Raynaud-Simon:** There are several warning signs to consider. For instance, unintentional weight loss—5% in a month or 10% over six months—can indicate malnutrition. Additionally, a persistent loss of appetite, skipping meals, or simply not consuming enough food are red flags. Observing changes in one’s clothing fit or poor oral hygiene can also point to nutritional deficiencies. It’s crucial that both individuals and caregivers are educated to recognize these signs early.
**Host:** How is malnutrition being addressed in the healthcare system?
**Dr. Raynaud-Simon:** Fortunately, there is a growing recognition of the importance of tackling malnutrition. For instance, at the Montpellier Cancer Institute, we have implemented specific tools to better detect and manage malnutrition among our patients. This proactive approach has allowed us to increase our identification rates significantly, from 5% to 50% of patients at risk in just a few years.
**Host:** That’s impressive. Speaking of national initiatives, UNICEF has launched the “No Time to Waste Acceleration Plan” recently. How do you see efforts like this influencing malnutrition awareness globally?
**Dr. Raynaud-Simon:** UNICEF’s efforts highlight the global urgency of addressing malnutrition, particularly among children. Their plan to tackle severe malnutrition in millions of children reinforces that this is not only a local issue but a worldwide crisis. Interventions like these are essential to raising awareness, mobilizing resources, and ultimately improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations everywhere.
**Host:** Given this context, what message would you like to share with our listeners about malnutrition?
**Dr. Raynaud-Simon:** My message is clear: malnutrition is a preventable and treatable disease. We must break the stigma around it, recognize the signs, and advocate for better nutritional care within our health systems. Everyone has a role to play, whether you’re a healthcare provider, a family member, or a friend. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that those at risk receive the support they need.
**Host:** Thank you so much, Dr. Raynaud-Simon, for your insights on this pressing issue. Let’s continue to raise awareness about malnutrition and support efforts aimed at combatting it.
**Dr. Raynaud-Simon:** Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to discuss such an important topic.