[India] Cancer cachexia: A meta-analysis of prevalence, outcomes, and interventions

[India] Cancer cachexia: A meta-analysis of prevalence, outcomes, and interventions
Saudi Journal of Medicine; by Dr Sharique Ahmad, Dr Saeeda Wasim; 8/25
Cancer cachexia, also known as cancer wasting, is a debilitating metabolic syndrome characterized by progressive weight loss, skeletal muscle atrophy, and systemic inflammation that cannot be fully reversed with standard nutritional support. It represents a distinct clinical entity, separate from malnutrition, due to its unique pathophysiology involving tumor-host interactions, cytokine-driven catabolism, and alterations in energy metabolism. This meta-analysis demonstrates that cancer
cachexia is highly prevalent, particularly in pancreatic and lung cancers, and strongly predicts poor survival and reduced treatment tolerance. Its high prevalence and significant impact highlight the urgent need for early recognition and systematic management in oncology practice.