Defining and Addressing Research Priorities in Cancer Cachexia through Transdisciplinary Collaboration

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Metabolism
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Cancer-associated cachexia (CAC) is a complex syndrome characterized by unintended weight and muscle loss.
• CAC negatively affects treatment tolerance, quality of life, and survival in cancer patients.
• Current therapeutic interventions for CAC are limited, with no FDA-approved pharmacologic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of science regarding cancer-associated cachexia.
• To identify knowledge gaps and research priorities for CAC.
• To foster transdisciplinary research collaborations for advancing CAC understanding and treatment.

Main Methods:

• An inaugural retreat on CAC was held in May 2022, involving researchers and clinicians.
• Discussions focused on reviewing existing research, identifying unmet needs, and outlining future research directions.
• The review summarizes key research priorities and ongoing collaborative efforts.

Main Results:

• Highest priorities include evaluating patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures for CAC.
• Identifying biomarkers for early prediction and monitoring of CAC progression is crucial.
• Developing and testing interventions (pharmacologic, nutritional, exercise, modeling) to prevent CAC progression.

Conclusions:

• Addressing cancer-associated cachexia requires a multi-faceted approach.
• Prioritizing PROs, biomarkers, and novel interventions is essential for improving patient outcomes.
• Transdisciplinary collaboration is key to advancing research and clinical management of CAC.