Global Burden of Nutritional Deficiencies in Seniors

Global Burden of Nutritional Deficiencies in Seniors

Nutritional deficiencies pose a significant public health challenge, especially among older adults. As the global population ages, the prevalence of nutritional deficiencies, including protein-energy malnutrition, iodine deficiency, vitamin A deficiency, and dietary iron deficiency, has garnered increased attention from health professionals and policymakers. A recent study using the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021 data highlights the alarming trends and inequalities in nutritional deficiencies affecting seniors aged 65 years and older across various regions and income levels (Liang et al., 2025).

The global age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) among older adults has shown an upward trend, increasing from 1407.16 per 100,000 population in 1990 to 2015.58 per 100,000 population in 2021, with an average annual percentage change (AAPC) of 1.18 (1.08–1.28) (Liang et al., 2025). This trend underscores the pressing need for targeted interventions to combat malnutrition among the elderly.

Table 1: Global Age-Standardized Prevalence Rates of Nutritional Deficiencies (1990-2021)

The GBD 2021 data revealed that while the overall prevalence of iodine, vitamin A, and dietary iron deficiencies has decreased globally, the increasing trend of PEM among older adults requires urgent attention. The findings indicate that health inequalities persist, as countries with lower sociodemographic indices (SDI) continue to experience a higher burden of nutritional deficiencies (Liang et al., 2025).

Trends in Protein-Energy Malnutrition Among Older Adults

Protein-energy malnutrition remains a critical issue for older adults, with significant implications for their health and well-being. The increasing prevalence of PEM can be attributed to various factors, including physiological changes associated with aging, socio-economic factors, and access to nutritious food. Older adults often face barriers to adequate nutrition, including difficulty in preparing meals, decreased appetite, and social isolation.

A comprehensive analysis of the data indicates that the age-standardized DALY rates for PEM have decreased from 340.38 per 100,000 population in 1990 to 177.79 per 100,000 population in 2021, reflecting improvements in healthcare and nutrition interventions (Liang et al., 2025). However, the ASPR of PEM continues to rise, indicating a growing trend that necessitates targeted public health responses.

Table 2: Age-Standardized DALY Rates for Protein-Energy Malnutrition (1990-2021)

The disparity in the burden of PEM based on income levels is evident. High-income countries have made significant progress in reducing the prevalence of malnutrition, while low- and middle-income countries continue to struggle with high rates of PEM, exacerbated by poverty, food insecurity, and lack of access to healthcare resources.

Regional Disparities in Iodine and Vitamin A Deficiencies

Iodine and vitamin A deficiencies remain prevalent in certain regions, particularly in low-income countries. The ASPR for iodine deficiency has decreased, with a notable prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, where access to iodized salt remains limited (Liang et al., 2025). In 2021, Somalia was reported to have the highest ASPR of iodine deficiency among older adults at 24331.41 per 100,000 population.

Similarly, vitamin A deficiency poses a significant threat to older adults, particularly in regions with high rates of poverty and food insecurity. The global ASPR for vitamin A deficiency has decreased over the years, yet it remains a critical public health concern in many low-income countries.

Table 3: Age-Standardized Prevalence Rates of Iodine and Vitamin A Deficiencies (2021)

These regional disparities highlight the need for targeted interventions to address nutritional deficiencies among older adults, particularly in vulnerable populations. Efforts to improve access to iodized salt and vitamin A-rich foods can significantly reduce the burden of these deficiencies.

Dietary Iron Deficiency: Prevalence and Impact on Seniors

Dietary iron deficiency remains a pressing issue among older adults, with significant implications for their health. The global ASPR for dietary iron deficiency has shown a slight decrease, yet it continues to affect millions of seniors worldwide. In 2021, India was reported to have the highest ASPR of dietary iron deficiency among older adults at 47067.98 per 100,000 population (Liang et al., 2025).

Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which is particularly concerning for older adults as it can exacerbate existing health conditions and increase the risk of hospitalization. The association between dietary iron deficiency and chronic diseases underscores the importance of addressing this issue through public health initiatives aimed at improving dietary intake and access to iron-rich foods.

Table 4: Age-Standardized Prevalence Rates of Dietary Iron Deficiency (2021)

Addressing dietary iron deficiency among older adults requires a multifaceted approach, including public health campaigns to promote iron-rich diets and fortification of staple foods with iron.

Addressing Nutritional Inequalities in Aging Populations

To effectively address nutritional inequalities among aging populations, comprehensive strategies must be implemented at both national and global levels. Strategies should focus on improving access to nutritious foods, enhancing nutritional education, and promoting food fortification programs.

Public Health Initiatives: Governments should prioritize public health initiatives that focus on nutrition for older adults, including community-based programs that enhance access to healthy foods. Collaboration with local organizations can facilitate the distribution of food aid and nutritional supplements to vulnerable populations.

Nutritional Screening: Implementing routine nutritional screening in healthcare settings can help identify at-risk older adults and enable timely interventions. Healthcare providers should be trained to recognize signs of malnutrition and provide appropriate referrals for nutritional support.

Education and Awareness Campaigns: Public awareness campaigns should be launched to educate older adults and their caregivers about the importance of nutrition and maintaining a balanced diet. These campaigns can provide practical guidance on meal preparation, food choices, and the significance of nutrient intake in promoting health.

Food Fortification: Food fortification programs should be expanded to include essential micronutrients, particularly in regions with high rates of deficiencies. Fortifying staple foods with vitamins and minerals can significantly contribute to improving the nutritional status of older adults.

FAQ

What are common nutritional deficiencies in older adults? Common nutritional deficiencies among older adults include protein-energy malnutrition, iodine deficiency, vitamin A deficiency, and dietary iron deficiency.

How do nutritional deficiencies impact the health of older adults? Nutritional deficiencies can lead to various health issues, including weakened immune function, cognitive decline, increased risk of chronic diseases, and higher rates of hospitalization.

What can be done to address nutritional deficiencies in seniors? Strategies to address nutritional deficiencies in seniors include enhancing access to nutritious foods, implementing nutritional screening in healthcare settings, launching education and awareness campaigns, and expanding food fortification programs.

Are there regional disparities in nutritional deficiencies among older adults? Yes, there are significant regional disparities in nutritional deficiencies, with higher prevalence rates observed in low-income countries and specific geographic regions, such as sub-Saharan Africa and South Asi How can public health initiatives help improve nutrition among older adults? Public health initiatives can improve nutrition among older adults by promoting access to healthy foods, providing nutritional education, and facilitating community support programs to address food insecurity.

References

1. Liang, S., Xi, S.-Z., Liu, J.-Y., Tang, G.-C., Zhang, W.-G., Guo, X.-R., Yang, C., Zhang, C., & Cai, G.-Y. (2025). Global burden and cross-country inequalities of nutritional deficiencies in adults aged 65 years and older, 1990–2021: population-based study using the GBD 2021. BMC Geriatrics, 25(1), 1-12. doi:10.1186/s12877-025-05728-9

2. Leistner, B., Rauschning, D., Hagen, R. M., Srečec, F., Mutschnik, C., & Döhla, M. (2025). Logistic Stewardship: Supporting Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs Based on Antibiotics Goods Flow. Antibiotics, 14(1), 1-15. doi:10.3390/antibiotics14010043

3. Dang, Q., Li, Y., & Chen, S. (2025). The emotions of Chinese netizens toward the opening-up policies for COVID-19: panic, trust, and acceptance. Front Public Health, 12, 1489006. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2024.1489006