'People tell me they haven't eaten in days'
Summary
A volunteer at a food bank in Hastings, UK, reports that more people are arriving malnourished or with nutrient deficiencies. Information from several NHS trusts in the South East shows hospital admissions for these conditions have increased significantly in recent years. Rising food prices and an aging population are contributing to the problem, according to experts.Key Facts
- People in the South East of England are increasingly arriving at food banks malnourished or with nutrient deficiencies.
- Hospital admissions for malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies have nearly doubled or tripled in some areas over recent years.
- Data shows cases increased from 2,051 to 3,879 at East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust between 2020/21 and 2024/25.
- Admissions rose from 16 to about 40 at Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust in the same period.
- University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust saw a 45% rise in cases from 2021/22 to 2024/25.
- Rising food costs and an aging population struggling with nutrition are key factors driving this issue.
- Food prices have climbed by about 37% in the past five years.
- Experts indicate a decrease in social interaction since the Covid-19 pandemic has also impacted people's ability to assist others with nutritional challenges.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.