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Open Access 01-09-2007 | Original Article

Critical weight loss in head and neck cancer—prevalence and risk factors at diagnosis: an explorative study

Authors: Harriët Jager-Wittenaar, Pieter U. Dijkstra, Arjan Vissink, Bernard F. A. M. van der Laan, Rob P. van Oort, Jan L. N. Roodenburg

Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer | Issue 9/2007

Abstract

Goals of work

Critical weight loss (≥5% in 1 month or ≥10% in 6 months) is a common phenomenon in head and neck cancer patients. It is unknown which complaints are most strongly related to critical weight loss in head and neck cancer patients at the time of diagnosis. The aim of this explorative study was to assess the prevalence of critical weight loss and to analyze risk factors for critical weight loss in head and neck cancer patients before treatment.

Materials and methods

Critical weight loss and factors reducing dietary intake were assessed in 447 patients referred to an ear, nose and throat clinic at the time of diagnosis.

Main results

In total, data of 407 patients were analyzed. Critical weight loss was present in 19% of the patients. Patients with cancer in the hypopharynx, oropharynx/oral cavity and supraglottic larynx had the highest risk for critical weight loss. Loss of appetite, dysphagia/passage difficulties and loss of taste/aversion were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with critical weight loss.

Conclusions

Already before treatment, critical weight loss is a considerable problem in head and neck cancer patients. Critical weight loss is frequently observed in patients with cancer in the hypopharynx, oropharynx/oral cavity and supraglottic larynx.

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Title: Critical weight loss in head and neck cancer—prevalence and risk factors at diagnosis: an explorative study
Authors: Harriët Jager-Wittenaar
Pieter U. Dijkstra
Arjan Vissink
Bernard F. A. M. van der Laan
Rob P. van Oort
Jan L. N. Roodenburg
Publication date: 01-09-2007
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer / Issue 9/2007
Print ISSN: 0941-4355
Electronic ISSN: 1433-7339
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-006-0212-9

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