Articles

Promoting Health Equity for the Hispanic Population through Improved Access to Malnutrition Screening and Intervention

Publication Date: 05 July 2023

Author(s): Andie Lee Gonzalez, PhD, RDN, FAND
Albert Barrocas, MD, FACS, FASPEN
Mary Beth Arensberg, PhD, RDN, FAND

Abstract:

Malnutrition can lead to worse health outcomes and inequities. The risk for malnutrition is higher in communities of color, young children, and older adults. This commentary defines malnutrition and its impacts as well as the impacts of health equity on nutrition and nutrition access. Also included are recommendations and practice tips specific to identification and intervention for malnutrition. The commentary concludes by summarizing a physician action plan to address improved nutrition quality via improved access to nutrition care.

 

Andie Lee Gonzalez, PhD, RDN, FAND; Albert Barrocas, MD, FACS, FASPEN; Mary Beth Arensberg, PhD, RDN, FAND. 2023. “Promoting Health Equity for the Hispanic Population through Improved Access to Malnutrition Screening and Intervention.” Journal of the National Hispanic Medical Association 1 (1): 39–50.

Author Bio(s):

Andie Lee Gonzalez, PhD, MPH, RDN, LD, FAND

Senior Medical Science Liaison
Medical Affairs & Research
Abbott Nutrition
Palmview, TX, USA

Andie Lee Gonzalez is a Medical Science Liaison with the Pediatric MSL Team. Dr Gonzalez earned a bachelor's degree in Dietetics and Nutrition, a Master in Public Health (MPH) and clinical Dietetic training at Michigan State University (MSU) in East Lansing, Michigan. Her undergraduate and graduate work focused on nutrition and migrant farmworker children health. She completed her PhD in Organizational Leadership from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas.

Her previous roles included inpatient and outpatient counseling for adults and pediatric patients. She was an adjunct Community Nutrition Professor at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, South Texas College, and served as an AmeriCorps-Health Corps member. Dr Gonzalez also serves in various community nutrition-focused local and national organizations. A few roles include President-Elect for the Texas Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Public Advocacy Liaison for the Latinos and Hispanics in Dietetics and Nutrition, and chair for Grants and Awards with the Pediatric Nutrition Practice Group.

Albert Barrocas, MD, FACS, FASPEN

Albert Barrocas, MD, FACS, FASPEN is an Adjunct Clinical Professor of Surgery for Tulane University School of Medicine and a retired Chief Medical Officer for Wellstar Health System, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Mary Beth Arensberg, PhD, RDN, LDN, FAND

Abbott Nutrition Director of Health Policy
Abbott
Columbus, OH, USA

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