Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The Washington Post published an in-depth analysis by Andrew Van Dam titled "Why are malnutrition deaths soaring in America?" that examined a sharp rise in US deaths attributed to malnutrition, particularly among older adults.Using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mortality data, the report indicates that deaths listing malnutrition as the underlying cause have increased roughly sixfold over the past decade, with adults aged 85 and older experiencing the fastest increase.Van Dam explains that this increase reflects both nutritional vulnerability among older Americans and improved clinical recognition and reporting of malnutrition as a diagnosable condition rather than merely a symptom of other diseases (Van Dam, Washington Post , January 5, 2026).Malnutrition among older adults is not a fringe issue-it has real health consequences.Independent health research shows that malnutrition in people over 65 often leads to longer hospital stays, higher risk of complications and falls, and worse recovery outcomes.Even among older adults living at a normal weight, inadequate intake of protein and micronutrients increases morbidity and mortality.(Edmisten, A. 2003."Malnutrition and Food Insecurity in Older Adults."North Carolina Medical Journal 84, no.2: 106-109.https:/
Source: Journal of Food Science
Author: James Giese
Language: English
Subfield: Physiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7127985996
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