Evaluation of malnutrition risk screening in hospitalized children with digestive system diseases—a single-center cross-sectional study

In a single‑center cross‑sectional study (Jan–Jun 2024), 1,200 pediatric inpatients (1 month–18 years) were screened within 24 h using a modified pediatric malnutrition risk tool. Overall malnutrition‑risk prevalence was 53.17%, with 13.67% high risk; rates varied by diagnosis, with anorexia nervosa and inflammatory bowel disease showing elevated risk. High‑risk status correlated with longer hospital stays, greater costs, and higher rehospitalization, supporting prompt, standardized screening and tailored nutrition support to improve outcomes.