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Management of Anorexia-Cachexia Syndrome in a Community Palliative Care Support Team
Inês Saura1,2, Joana Brandão Silva1,3,4, Daniela Cunha5
1Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
Anorexia-Cachexia Syndrome (ACS) management in home palliative care requires early, multidisciplinary intervention. Psychological support protects against anorexia, while higher MNA scores and enteral nutrition increase weight loss risk.
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care
- Oncology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Anorexia-Cachexia Syndrome (ACS) significantly impacts prognosis and quality of life in advanced chronic illnesses.
- ACS is a multifactorial condition prevalent in palliative care settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate ACS prevalence, management, and outcomes in home-based palliative care.
- Identify predictors of weight loss and anorexia in this population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of 128 patients (2021-2024).
- Collected data on demographics, nutrition (PPS, MNA), symptoms, interventions, and medications.
- Utilized descriptive, inferential, and multivariable regression analyses.
Main Results:
- ACS observed in oncologic and non-oncologic conditions; weight loss and anorexia interrelated.
- Higher MNA scores and enteral nutrition use independently predicted increased weight loss risk.
- Lower PPS scores, enteral nutrition, and psychological support were protective against anorexia.
Conclusions:
- Effective ACS management in home palliative care necessitates early symptom identification and multidisciplinary, personalized strategies.
- Early intervention (within the first week) is crucial for managing weight loss risk associated with higher MNA scores.
- Psychological support is a key protective factor for patients experiencing anorexia.
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