Cachexia in oral squamous cell carcinoma Sudanese patients: an exploratory study

Cachexia status is a drastic issue in cancer patients. The main goal of this study; which is considered the first of its kind in Sudan, was to enhance our understanding of the clinical implications of oral cancer cachexia. Newly diagnosed Sudanese patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) were evaluated for the incidence and impact of cachexia.

This is a longitudinal descriptive study conducted at Khartoum Teaching Dental Hospital before April 2023. A number of 40 OSCC participants above 18 years old were analyzed for Cachexia based on weight loss, low hemoglobin levels, albumin levels, elevated C-reactive protein, decreased mid-upper arm circumference, loss of appetite, and anorexia. Data were collected over three visits, and analyzed using descriptive and bivariate statistics.

The study included 40 newly diagnosed patients with OSCC, with a mean of age 56.8 years. The incidence of cachexia was 33.2% before surgery, 55% one month postoperatively, and 65% six months later. Cachexia was significantly correlated (p < 0.05) with delayed wound healing (p = 0.008), prolonged nasogastric feeding tube usage (p = 0.023), interrupted adjuvant therapy (p = 0.003), and mortality (p = 0.007). Low BMI, loss of appetite, food intake, low hemoglobin, and elevated CRP were significant diagnostic criteria as well (p < 0.05).

In this study, Cachexia was found to be a critical prognostic factor for OSCC patients. Larger-scale clinical research in Sudan is needed to provide definitive findings and strategies to support nutritional status during therapy.