Nutritional disorders on the rise in Czech Republic and Slovakia

Reports from Central Europe highlight rising concerns regarding nutritional disorders, specifically obesity and malnutrition. In the Czech Republic, the health insurance company ČPZP reported a one-third increase in the number of people suffering from both obesity and malnutrition over the last five years. The most frequent cases of malnutrition occur in seniors aged 70 to 84, while obesity remains the most prevalent diagnosis, accounting for 80 percent of cases treated by the insurer. These conditions have led to a significant rise in medical costs, with ČPZP spending 438 million CZK on nutritional diseases over five years.

In Slovakia, nutritional experts emphasize the importance of monitoring dietary changes in seniors. Malnutrition in older populations can manifest through reduced food intake, unintended weight loss, or fatigue. A survey by Danone indicated that 43 percent of Slovak respondents aged 60 and over eat only twice a day. Experts warn that insufficient protein intake can lead to loss of muscle mass and strength, impacting independence. Early detection of nutritional deficiencies is critical to preventing serious health complications and maintaining immune function.