Exploration of risk factors for weight loss in head and neck cancer patients

DAWSON, Patrick, TAYLOR, Amy and BRAGG, Christopher Mark (2015). Exploration of risk factors for weight loss in head and neck cancer patients. Journal of Radiotherapy in Practice, 14 (04), 343-352.

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Link to published version:: https://doi.org/10.1017/S146039691500031X

Abstract

Introduction: Head and neck cancer patients receiving radiotherapy can experience a number of toxicities, including weight loss and malnutrition, which can impact upon the quality of treatment. The purpose of this retrospective cohort study is to evaluate weight loss and identify predictive factors for this patient group.

Method and materials: 40 patients treated with radiotherapy since 2012 at the study centre were selected for analysis. Data was collected from patient records. The association between potential risk factors and weight loss was investigated.

Results: Mean weight loss was 5 kg (6%). 24 patients lost >5% starting body weight. Age, Tstage,N-stage, chemotherapy and starting body weight were individually associated with significant differences in weight loss. On multiple linear regression analysis age and nodal status were predictive.

Conclusion: Younger patients and those with nodal disease were most at risk of weight loss. Other studies have identified the same risk factors along with several other variables. The relative significance of each along with a number of other potential factors is yet to be fully understood. Further research is required to help identify patients most at risk of weight loss; and assess interventions aimed at preventing weight loss and malnutrition.

Item Type: Article
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018: Biomedical Research Centre
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1017/S146039691500031X
Page Range: 343-352
Depositing User: Amy Taylor
Date Deposited: 02 Oct 2015 09:09
Last Modified: 18 Mar 2021 04:08
URI: https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/10754

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