UNMC says malnutrition increases risk of mortality from COVID-19

“These results highlight the importance of early recognition of malnutrition risk and effective nutrition interventions in COVID-19 patients,” Dr. Ponce said. 

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Research done by the University of Nebraska Medical Center shows an increased rate in the risk of mortality for patients with malnutrition.

UNMC researchers found that malnutrition increases the risk of mortality from COVID-19 by 2.5 times and the risk of being on a ventilator by 5.7 times.

Dr. Ponce and her team used data from the National COVID Cohort Collaborative to help with their research.

“These results highlight the importance of early recognition of malnutrition risk and effective nutrition interventions in COVID-19 patients,” Dr. Ponce said. 

According to John Hopkins University, malnutrition happens when the body is deprived of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients it needs to maintain healthy tissues and organ function.

Dr. Ponce will present her team’s research at ASPEN’s 2022 annual conference as a candidate for the Harry M. Vars Research Award.