Boston, USA : Unintended weight loss is a potential warning sign that individuals may be at risk of receiving a cancer diagnosis within the next year, suggests a new study conducted by the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The findings, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, emphasize the need for individuals experiencing unexpected weight loss to consult with their doctors for a thorough evaluation.
Uncovering the Link Between Weight Loss and Cancer
Lead investigator Brian Wolpin, MD, MPH, Director of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Center at Dana-Farber, underscores the significance of unintended weight loss as a potential indicator of underlying health issues. The study, which assessed 157,474 participants over several decades, revealed a notable association between recent weight loss and an increased risk of certain cancers.
Key Findings
- Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Cancers: Oesophagal, stomach, liver, biliary tract, and pancreatic cancer.
- Haematological Cancers: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and leukaemia.
- Colorectal Cancer
- Lung Cancer
Differentiating Healthy and Unhealthy Weight Loss
Wolpin and colleagues sought to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy weight loss. Healthy weight loss, attributed to dietary changes or increased exercise, can be beneficial. However, unexpected weight loss unrelated to lifestyle changes may signal an underlying issue, possibly cancer.
Identifying Early-Stage Cancer
Contrary to the common belief that weight loss accompanies advanced cancer, the study found that similar levels of weight loss occurred before the diagnosis of both early and late-stage diseases. This discovery is crucial as it suggests that unintentional weight loss could serve as an early sign of developing cancer, facilitating early diagnosis and more effective treatment.
Prospective Data Collection
Unlike previous studies relying on weight data collected during doctor visits, this research gathered weight information prospectively and regularly over decades. This approach, independent of doctor visits, contributes to the robustness of the findings. Moreover, the study encompassed various cancer types, enhancing the generalizability of the results.
Seeking Medical Evaluation
The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of consulting healthcare professionals when individuals experience unexpected weight loss. Prompt medical evaluation can help identify potential underlying causes, including cancer, and facilitate timely intervention.
