nutrition and cancer

Question 1

define cachexia

Answer 1

breakdown of skeletal muscle and abnormalities in fat and carbohydrate metabolism (despite adequate nutritional intake)

Question 2

factors contributing to cachexia

Answer 2

• alterations in metabolism
• alterations in physiology
• insufficient dietary intake
• physical impairment of swallowing

Question 3

define examples of alterations in metabolism

Answer 3

increased protein breakdown
glucose intolerance
abnormal insulin response

Question 4

define examples of alterations in physiology

Answer 4

malabsorption
maldigestion
constipation
(due to tumour or therapy)

Question 5

define examples of insufficient dietary intake

Answer 5

suppression of apepetite mediated by cytokines or emotional factors
nausea, vomiting, radiation etc

Question 6

define examples of physical impairment of swallowing

Answer 6

mass effect of tumour
reduction in saliva production
surgical interruption

Question 7

how can maximizing treatment be achieved

Answer 7

• supplemental feeding
• enteral feeding
• total parenteral nutrition
• pharmacological agents to combat anorexia, wasting and nausea
• advice regarding food-related problems
• nutraceutical agents to enhance immunity

Question 8

what are the 3 aims of medical nutrition therapy for cancer

Answer 8

• minimize weight loss
• prevent/support nutritional deficiencies
• manage complications that impair food intake