The number of cases of malnutrition detected by the NHS on the Isle of Wight is increasing.
Recently released Government figures show that malnutrition cases have increased dramatically in the last three years.
When people are admitted to hospital, a number of tests are carried out to assess their general health. One of these is for malnutrition.
Massive increase over 3 years
In 2007-8, only eight cases were identified at St Mary’s hospital as malnourished.
This increased dramatically in 2008-9, leaping three and a half times to 28.
The latest figures currently available are for 2009-10, which show a further increase – rising a further 25%, to 35.
Over the period that the figures are available, the increase has been close to four and a half times.
Image: St Mary’s
