Title : Global prevalence of malnutrition in older adults: A meta-analysis using the GLIM criteria
Abstract:
Introduction: Malnutrition is a significant health concern among older adults, affecting their health outcomes and quality of life. Accurate prevalence data are essential for effective intervention. The GLIM criteria provide a standardized approach for diagnosing malnutrition.
Objective: To systematically evaluate the prevalence of malnutrition in older adults diagnosed using the GLIM criteria.
Methods: Search The Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, SpringerLink, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), VIP database, Wanfang Database, and China Biology Medicine Literature Database (CBM) for studies on malnutrition in older adults diagnosed by GLIM criteria. The search period was from January 1, 2019, to January 31, 2025. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted information, and assessed the quality of the included studies. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 15.1 software.
Results: A total of 9 studies involving 12,210 older adults were included, all of which were of medium to high quality. The meta-analysis results showed that the prevalence of malnutrition in older adults diagnosed by GLIM criteria was 42% [95% CI (32%, 51%)], The prevalence of malnutrition in older adults diagnosed by GLIM criteria was higher than that diagnosed by the SGA criteria (42% vs 34%), and also higher than that diagnosed by the ESPEN criteria (42% vs 24%).
Conclusion: This study systematically assessed the prevalence of malnutrition in elderly patients using the GLIM criteria, emphasizing that nurses should actively engage in nutritional assessments to deliver patient-centered care and improve outcomes.
