# Understanding Malnutrition Awareness Week Resolution

This resolution is Congress's way of officially recognizing the week of September 16-20, 2024, as "Malnutrition Awareness Week." It's not a law that creates new rules or programs—instead, it's a statement of support that highlights an important health problem and encourages action on multiple fronts. The resolution acknowledges that malnutrition (not getting enough protein, calories, or nutrients) is a serious issue affecting millions of Americans across all backgrounds, and it calls attention to the people and programs working to address it.

The resolution points out some sobering facts: about half of older adults in the U.S. are malnourished or at risk, Black children are almost three times more likely than white children to live in food-insecure households, and malnutrition in hospitals costs the healthcare system significantly more money to treat. It also recognizes that malnutrition isn't just about hunger—it's connected to poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and other social factors that make it harder for certain communities to get adequate nutrition. The resolution specifically highlights that American Indian and Alaska Native communities, as well as Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, face disproportionately high rates of food insecurity.

While this resolution doesn't directly change any laws or create new funding, it does express Congressional support for several concrete actions: increased funding for existing nutrition programs like school lunch programs and meals for seniors, better access to nutrition counseling for vulnerable populations, and improved screening for malnutrition in hospitals and healthcare settings. It also recognizes the work of dietitians, healthcare providers, social workers, and others on the front lines of fighting malnutrition. Essentially, Congress is saying this issue matters and deserves more attention and resources from government agencies and healthcare providers.

Supporting the designation of the week of September 16 through September 20, 2024, as "Malnutrition Awareness Week".

Bonamici, Suzanne

<p>This resolution expresses support for the designation of Malnutrition Awareness Week.</p>