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Tackling the increasing problem of malnutrition in older persons: The Malnutrition in the Elderly (MaNu EL ) Knowledge Hub
Author(s) -
Visser M.,
Volkert D.,
Corish C.,
Geisler C.,
Groot L. C.,
CruzJentoft A. J.,
Lohrmann C.,
O'Connor E. M.,
Schindler K.,
Schueren M. A.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
nutrition bulletin
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.933
H-Index - 40
eISSN - 1467-3010
pISSN - 1471-9827
DOI - 10.1111/nbu.12268
Subject(s) - malnutrition , medicine , observational study , manu , biology , pathology , botany
In order to tackle the increasing problem of malnutrition ( i.e . protein‐energy malnutrition) in the older population, the Joint Action Malnutrition in the Elderly ( MaNu EL ) Knowledge Hub has been recently launched as part of the Strategic Research Agenda of the Joint Programming Initiative ( JPI ) A Healthy Diet for a Healthy Life ( HDHL ). This paper introduces this new European initiative and describes its objectives and design. The MaNu EL consortium consists of 22 research groups from seven countries (Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, Spain, The Netherlands and New Zealand). The Consortium aims to extend scientific knowledge; strengthen evidence‐based practice in the management of malnutrition in older persons; build a sustainable, transnational, competent network of malnutrition experts; and harmonise research and clinical practice. MaNu EL is built on five interconnected work packages that focus on (i) defining treatable malnutrition; (ii) screening of malnutrition in different settings; (iii) determinants of malnutrition; (iv) prevention and treatment of malnutrition; and (v) policies and education regarding malnutrition screening and treatment in older persons across Europe. Systematic literature reviews will be performed to assess current research on malnutrition and identify potential knowledge gaps. Secondary data analyses of nutritional intervention trials and observational studies will also be conducted. Using Web‐based questionnaires, MaNu EL will provide insight into current clinical practice, policies and health professionals’ education on malnutrition and will make recommendations for improvement. MaNu EL is being advised by a stakeholder board of five experts in geriatric nutrition who represent relevant European professional societies.