P045 - PROPOSAL OF A TOOL FOR SCREENING THE RISK OF CACHEXIA IN CANCER PATIENTS

P045

PROPOSAL OF A TOOL FOR SCREENING THE RISK OF CACHEXIA IN CANCER PATIENTS

T. M. Miola^1,*, L. B. N. de Matos², S. D. R. Dias¹

¹Nutrition, ²ACCamargo Cancer Center, São Paulo, Brazil

Rationale: . The objective of this study was to develop a screening tool to identify the risk of cachexia in outpatients with cancer.

Methods: The tool was developed to detect the risk of cachexia in outpatients treated at an oncology center. The proposed screening tool was based on diagnostic criteria for cachexia; functionality; and symptoms that may reduce alimentation. The self-administered tool was also posted on the hospital website to enable access by health professionals from other hospitals and clinics, as well as by patients

Results: Data were collected from 275 patients receiving outpatient care. The most prevalent diagnosis was breast cancer (26.2%). Metastatic cancer was present in 25.1% of the total sample. Risk of
cachexia was identified in 37.8% of patients. Death within 30 days was experienced by 47.1% (41 of 87) patients treated in the emergency room and was significantly associated with the risk of cachexia (n=39; 57.4%) (p<0.001). Age, female sex, and metastatic disease were associated with the risk of cachexia (p<0.001, p=0.014, p<0.001, respectively).

Conclusion: Cachexia is a prevalent and underdiagnosed condition among cancer patients. The development of specific screening tools is extremely important to facilitate early detection of patients at risk, with the aim of initiating proactive interventions.

Disclosure of Interest: None declared