Description

Kubrak et al identified risk factors for weight loss and malnutrition in patients with cancer of the head and neck. A patient with significant weight loss and malnutrition tends to have more serious tumors and worse prognosis. The authors are from the University of Alberta in Canada.


Patient selection: head and neck cancer

 

Risk factors for Grade 4 weight loss:

(1) stage IV disease

(2) ECOG performance status >= 2

(3) tumor of the hypopharynx

(4) decreased dietary intake

(5) more bothersome symptoms (anorexia, dysphagia, pain)

 

Type of Food

Amount

OR for Grade 4 Weight Loss

normal

normal

1

normal

reduced

4.0

little solid (mostly liquids)

NA

25.2

only liquids

NA

39.9

NA

very little

51.8

only nutritional supplements

NA

26.8

 


To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.