MaNuEL

Within MaNuEL, 22 research groups from 7 countries with complementary expertise in the field of malnutrition in older persons are now actively collaborating, supported by an advisory board of 6 renowned experts in the field of geriatric nutrition, some representing relevant European organisations. The collaboration started with a kick-off meeting in April 2016 in Nurnberg, and is supported by a consortium agreement signed by all partners in February 2017. During the first year, the work in all work packages has started as planned and described in the project proposal. Presently available scientific knowledge is summarized in several systematic literature reviews. Existing datasets within MaNuEL were compiled and harmonized and are presently analysed to answer the following research questions: how many older persons are malnourished or at risk of developing malnutrition?; how can we effectively screen older persons with (or at risk of) malnutrition?; what are important risk factors for developing malnutrition in older persons?; and what treatments are effective in which health care setting? Furthermore, two web-surveys are being conducted to identify the current state of policies and practice as well as regarding education of health care professionals in European countries. Harmonization of research across Europe, within as well as outside the project, is an important goal of MaNuEL. For example, partners use standardized analysis protocols and standardized definitions of malnutrition. External collaborations with other JPI Knowledge Hubs (DEDIPAC) and other EU funded research projects (SENATOR, PROMISS) take place to further stimulate harmonization. The web-based surveys will contribute to harmonization of malnutrition-related policy, practice and education throughout Europe. The first results of the project will be presented in 2017 at two large European congresses. A paper describing the objectives and design of MaNuEL was written and will be published in Nutrition Bulletin in June 2017.