How has NKF reduced malnutrition rates despite patient load increase?

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NKF cut dialysis malnutrition rates from 42% in 2017 to 21% in 2025 despite rising patient numbers from 3,440 to more than 5,300 by prioritising protein intake with closer monitoring and targeted supplementation. NKF reported that its approach combined personalised dietetic guidance, routine nutritional assessments, and oral nutritional supplements, often in the form of specialised formula milk, provided during dialysis sessions. The shift focused on meeting the higher protein needs created by protein loss during dialysis.
Its strategy centred on protein intake during dialysis sessions
NKF said dialysis patients typically need about 1.2g of protein per kilogram of body weight daily to help maintain muscle strength, immunity and resilience. The foundation attributed the improvement to making protein intake the centre of care, reflecting that dialysis itself causes protein loss. By targeting protein during the treatment period, NKF aimed to address malnutrition more directly than general dietary advice.
It used routine nutritional assessments and personalised dietetic guidance
NKF reported that personalised dietetic guidance and routine nutritional assessments were key parts of its programme. Its 12 dietitians visit 45 dialysis centres regularly to assess patients’ food intake and advise both patients and caregivers. This structure supported ongoing monitoring rather than relying on one-time counselling.
It provided oral nutritional supplements when patients struggled to meet needs
NKF said many patients struggle to maintain adequate protein intake because of strict dietary restrictions on potassium, phosphorus, sodium and fluids, alongside age-related appetite decline and chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. To help patients meet nutritional needs, NKF provided oral nutritional supplements, often specialised formula milk, during dialysis sessions. NKF also highlighted that structured support combining education, monitoring and supplementation remains essential for dialysis patients.
It showed measurable outcomes, including a case of weight regain
NKF reported that malnourished dialysis patients face a 20% higher risk of hospitalisation. It also cited improved outcomes for individual patients, including 74-year-old Neo Ah Lek, who developed moderate malnutrition after appetite declined. After six months on NKF formula milk supplements, her blood test results improved and she regained lost weight.

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How has NKF reduced malnutrition rates despite patient load increase?

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