Evaluating and Treating Patients with Cancer-related Cachexia

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Take Note

• It’s estimated that more than half of all cancer patients develop cachexia, with the incidence varying depending on the type of malignancy.
• Cancer cachexia is often irreversible, but a smart approach includes a careful assessment and treatment of secondary gastrointestinal symptoms, along with pharmacological and nonpharmacological options.
• Even in early stage cachexia, clinicians need to avoid overaggressive nutritional support that can precipitate malabsorption and diarrhea.