Cancer Anorexia and Cachexia: Screening in an Ambulatory Infusion Service and Nutrition Consultation

Background: Cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome compromises physical function and nutritional and emotional well-being. Systematic screening followed by nutrition referral for appropriate interventions is rare.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to pilot a screening process followed by nutritional assessment and intervention when warranted for patients with lung malignancies.

Methods: Adult patients with lung malignancies were invited to complete the 12-item Anorexia/Cachexia Scale (A/CS-12) on the day of chemotherapy initiation in ambulatory infusion. Those who scored at a preset threshold were referred to nutrition services for a comprehensive assessment and intervention plan. Those who scored better than the threshold completed the A/CS-12 at each infusion visit for as many as 16 weeks.

Findings: 90 participants enrolled, and 46 scored in a moderate-to-severe-risk category; of those, 42 were referred to nutrition services.