Cancer Cachexia

Overview

Cancer cachexia is a condition in which people with cancer lose weight and muscle mass, even if they are eating. It is not the same as ordinary weight loss. It is caused by the cancer itself, which changes how the body uses energy and breaks down muscle and fat. This can make people feel weak, tired, and lose their appetite.

Yes, especially in people with advanced cancer. It is estimated that up to 80% of people with certain advanced cancers, such as lung, pancreatic, and stomach cancer, may experience cachexia.

Cancer cachexia can affect anyone with cancer, but it is more common in people with cancers of the lung, pancreas, stomach, and esophagus. It can also affect children with cancer, although it is less common in children.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Unintentional weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Muscle loss and weakness
• Fatigue and low energy
• Feeling full after eating only small amounts
• Lack of interest in food

Symptoms in children

• Poor growth or failure to gain weight
• Lack of appetite
• Irritability
• Low energy and less interest in play

Symptoms in older adults

• More severe muscle loss and frailty
• Increased risk of falls
• Greater difficulty recovering from cancer treatments

Causes

Main causes

• The cancer itself, which can change the body's metabolism
• Chemicals released by the tumor that cause inflammation
• Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation
• The body using more energy than usual, breaking down muscle and fat

Risk factors

• Advanced or late-stage cancer
• Certain cancers, including lung, pancreatic, stomach, and esophageal cancer
• Older age
• Having other chronic illnesses, such as heart or lung disease

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have rapid, unintentional weight loss of more than 5% of your body weight in one month
• If you feel extremely weak or are unable to keep down food or fluids for more than 24 hours

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you notice a slower but steady loss of appetite or weight, talk to your doctor at your next appointment
• If you have concerns about your energy, strength, or ability to eat, bring them up with your care team

Diagnosis

Cachexia is diagnosed based on a physical exam, your medical history, and weight loss. Your doctor will look for signs of muscle loss, ask about appetite and strength, and may check your body mass index (BMI).

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for inflammation and nutrition levels
• Tracking your weight over time
• Measuring hand grip strength
• A body composition scan to measure muscle and fat, if available

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor or nurse will ask about your symptoms, examine you, and may arrange blood tests. They may ask you to keep track of your weight at home. Your care team will work with you to understand what is causing the weight loss and create a plan to support your nutrition and strength.

Treatment

The main goal of treatment is to support your nutrition, manage symptoms, and improve your quality of life. This is done together with your cancer treatment plan. Your team will include doctors, nurses, dietitians, and physical therapists who will help you maintain your strength and comfort.

Self-care at home

• Eat small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day
• Choose foods that are high in protein and calories, such as eggs, nuts, and full-fat dairy
• Stay hydrated by sipping fluids often
• Try gentle physical activity, like walking or stretching, if you feel able
• Talk to a dietitian about simple ways to add energy to your food
• Ask your doctor about options to help improve appetite (do not take any medicine without medical advice)

Medical treatments

Your doctor may talk to you about medications to help with appetite, nausea, or inflammation. Some treatments use medicines that help reduce inflammation or support muscle mass. In some cases, nutritional supplements may be recommended. Always follow your healthcare team's advice and never start or change any medication without their guidance.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat cachexia itself. The focus is on supportive care, nutrition, and symptom management alongside your cancer treatment.

Living with this condition

Focus on small, gentle goals each day. Eat little and often, keep your favorite foods nearby, and let family and friends help you with daily tasks when you need it. Accepting help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Lifestyle tips

• Try gentle exercises like walking or stretching, if you feel able
• Get plenty of rest and listen to your body
• Keep a simple food diary to track what you eat and how you feel
• Join a support group to connect with others who understand
• Tell your care team about any changes in how you feel

Diet and exercise

A dietitian can help you plan meals that are easy to eat and packed with energy and protein. Your physiotherapist can suggest simple exercises to help keep your muscles strong. Even a few minutes of standing or walking each day can make a difference.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Cachexia can be hard on your emotions. You may feel anxious, depressed, or frustrated. Talk to your doctor about how you are feeling. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of self-harm, call your local emergency number immediately or contact a mental health crisis line. You are not alone, and support is available.

Prevention

It may not always be possible to prevent cachexia, especially in advanced cancer. However, early monitoring of weight and appetite, combined with early support from a dietitian, may help slow the process and maintain strength.

Complications

If left untreated

• Severe wasting of muscle and fat
• Weakened immune system and higher risk of infections
• Increased fatigue and poor quality of life
• Difficulty completing cancer treatment due to weakness
• Reduced ability to recover from treatment side effects

Long-term outlook

While cachexia is serious, there are effective ways to manage it. Many people can maintain their weight and strength with the right support from their healthcare team. The focus is on improving comfort, quality of life, and preserving the things that matter most to you. Your team will work with you to create a plan that respects your goals and hopes.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.