The impact of cachexia on dietary intakes, symptoms, and quality of life in advanced cancer

Background The relationships between cachexia stages and the Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Therapy Anorexia Cachexia Subscale (FAACT ACS) 12-item, 5-item anorexia symptoms, 4-item concerns have not been investigated in Asian patients with advanced cancer. Methods This is a multicentre questionnaire survey conducted palliative supportive care settings across Japan. Consecutive were enrolled. Patient characteristics anthropometric measurements obtained. Dietary intakes nutrition impact symptoms also assessed. Patients evaluated their quality life (QOL) using FAACT ACS. Subjects divided into two groups, that is, pre-cachexia (non-cachexia) refractory (cachexia), based on cancer criteria from international consensus. Comparisons performed Mann–Whitney U test or chi-squared test. To evaluate relationship ACS concerns, adjusted odd ratios (ORs) 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated logistic models. Results Among 495 patients, 378 (76.4%) responded. Due to missing data, 344 classified non-cachexia group (n = 174) 170), 318 remained analysis had more impaired performance status, lower body mass index, higher frequency weight loss 1 month (P 0.021, <0.001, respectively). Advancing associated lack appetite reduced dietary < 0.001 P 0.001, QOL scores significantly worse In models ORs than observed [2.24 (95% CI 1.34–3.77), 0.002; 1.77 1.08–2.92), 0.024; 2.18 1.29–3.70), 0.004, respectively]. Conclusions are useful for identifying at risk deteriorates advancing this population.