Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST)

The Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) is a simple, standardized tool used to identify adults at risk of malnutrition. It assesses three main factors: body mass index (BMI), recent weight loss, and the presence of acute illness affecting nutritional intake. By calculating a score, health professionals can determine the level of risk and decide on appropriate interventions. MUST helps ensure that individuals receive the nutritional support they need, which is crucial for recovery, overall health, and quality of life. It’s widely used in hospitals, care homes, and community settings.