Prevalence of malnutrition among old people in Africa: systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

ObjectiveTo summarise available evidence and estimate the pooled prevalence of malnutrition among old people in Africa.DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis.SettingAny healthcare or community research reporting the prevalence or incidence of malnutrition in Africa from January 2000 to October 2021.ParticipantsOld people, aged above 60 years.Outcome measuresMalnutrition, either undernutrition or overnutrition.ResultsA total of 1442 studies were retrieved based on the search strategy, where only 36 studies (n=15 266 participants) reported from 11 African countries were included for meta-analysis. The reported prevalence of malnutrition ranges from 2.2% to 77.3% across the continent. Overall, the pooled prevalence rates of undernutrition and overnutrition were 18% (95% CI: 15% to 22%; I2=98.1; p<0.001) and 33% (95% CI: 22% to 44%; p<0. 001), respectively.ConclusionThe prevalence of malnutrition in old African people is high and differs by setting, assessment tool and country of residence. Hence, due attention to geriatric nutrition is mandatory, and the need for a valid, reliable and simple screening tool should be thought of.