nutrition and cancer Flashcards Preview

Cancer > nutrition and cancer > Flashcards

Flashcards in nutrition and cancer Deck (8)
Loading flashcards...
1
Q

define cachexia

A

breakdown of skeletal muscle and abnormalities in fat and carbohydrate metabolism (despite adequate nutritional intake)

2
Q

factors contributing to cachexia

A
  • alterations in metabolism
  • alterations in physiology
  • insufficient dietary intake
  • physical impairment of swallowing
3
Q

define examples of alterations in metabolism

A

increased protein breakdown
glucose intolerance
abnormal insulin response

4
Q

define examples of alterations in physiology

A

malabsorption
maldigestion
constipation
(due to tumour or therapy)

5
Q

define examples of insufficient dietary intake

A

suppression of apepetite mediated by cytokines or emotional factors
nausea, vomiting, radiation etc

6
Q

define examples of physical impairment of swallowing

A

mass effect of tumour
reduction in saliva production
surgical interruption

7
Q

how can maximizing treatment be achieved

A
  • supplemental feeding
  • enteral feeding
  • total parenteral nutrition
  • pharmacological agents to combat anorexia, wasting and nausea
  • advice regarding food-related problems
  • nutraceutical agents to enhance immunity
8
Q

what are the 3 aims of medical nutrition therapy for cancer

A
  • minimize weight loss
  • prevent/support nutritional deficiencies
  • manage complications that impair food intake