In a momentous step towards addressing malnutrition across West Africa, the West African Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (WASPEN) officially kicked off its 2025 Malnutrition Awareness Week on September 8, 2025.
This year's event marks a significant expansion, with an increase in participating institutions and the inclusion of two new countries—Cameroon and Ghana—reflecting a robust regional commitment to combat malnutrition.
The press conference held to launch this year's awareness week highlighted the growing impact of WASPEN’s initiatives. Last year, seven institutions from all six geopolitical zones in Nigeria actively participated, making a tangible impact through clinical engagement and media outreach. This year, the engagement has surged, with 17 institutions now officially onboard, underscoring a collective effort to tackle malnutrition within the healthcare system.
Dr. Teresa Isichei Pounds, President and Founder of WASPEN, noted the campaign's expansion into neighboring countries during her address. "The momentum has grown, as we welcome Cameroon and Ghana to our initiative for the first time," she stated. "This reflects a stronger regional commitment, and it’s clear that our message is resonating. More people are joining forces to address the pressing issue of malnutrition."
The increased participation of institutions is a vital step in creating a unified front against malnutrition, particularly in the context of hospital settings, where the issue often goes overlooked despite its prevalence.
Dr. Pounds emphasized the urgent need to address hospital malnutrition, stating that globally, between 20% and 50% of hospitalized patients suffer from malnutrition. In Nigeria, studies indicate that inpatient malnutrition rates range from 30% to 45%, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
By expanding their outreach, WASPEN aims to foster a collaborative environment where knowledge sharing and research can drive effective strategies to combat malnutrition. "This awareness week serves as a platform to raise consciousness and mobilize action across borders," Dr. Pounds remarked. "As we integrate our efforts with international campaigns, we reinforce the message that nutrition is a fundamental human right and central to health and recovery."
The activities planned for this week include expert-led webinars focused on optimizing nutrition care in hospitals and creating actionable pathways for integrating clinical nutrition into healthcare systems. Additionally, institution-specific events will further enhance local engagement, amplifying the reach and impact of the campaign.
The participation of Cameroon and Ghana is particularly significant, as these countries face their unique challenges related to malnutrition. By joining WASPEN, they contribute to a broader dialogue about nutrition care and can adapt successful strategies from previous initiatives in Nigeria.
Dr. Pounds expressed optimism about the future of this regional collaboration, stating, "With our combined efforts, we can make a considerable impact on tackling malnutrition in West Africa. Together, we have the potential to turn the tide against this pressing public health issue."
As the Malnutrition Awareness Week progresses, WASPEN is poised to lead an impactful regional movement that brings together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities in the fight against malnutrition, emphasizing that collective action is essential for sustained change.
